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Researchers reveal how autism-linked mutation triggers PTSD-like fear

A study published in Science Advances reveals that an autism-linked mutation disrupts brain circuits responsible for erasing fear memories, leading to PTSD-like symptoms. By reactivating specific neurons, researchers were able to reverse the behavioral and physiological abnormalities.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 17, 2025

A new target for anxiety disorders

Scientists have identified a novel molecular mechanism underlying brain cell communication, regulating excitatory synapse maturation and contributing to anxiety disorders. The study reveals the TrkC-PTPσ complex governs synaptic protein phosphorylation, leading to abnormal synapse organization and behavioral defects in mice.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateOct 11, 2024

Neuroscience research leverages stem cells to understand how neurons connect and communicate in the brain

Researchers at Colorado State University used human stem cells to study synaptic connections in the brain, focusing on GABAergic synapses. They found that Gephyrin promotes autonomous assembly of these synapses, which can develop independently of neuronal communication. This understanding could lead to new treatments for neurological d...

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2024
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New study reveals dynamic impact of nicotine on brain regions responsible for reward and aversion

A new study published in eNeuro explores the intricate interplay between brain regions involved in nicotine's effects on the human brain. Researchers discovered that the medial habenula experiences fluctuations in activity based on factors such as dosage and sex, highlighting a nuanced relationship.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournaleNeuro·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2024

Validating the role of inhibitory interneurons in memory

A newly developed labeling method allows for visualization of intraregional synaptic connections between inhibitory interneurons and excitatory engram cells. Researchers have identified the role of inhibitory interneurons in memory expression, suggesting that they suppress fear expression by inhibiting fear engram cells.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

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Changing the intrinsic behavior of neurons

Researchers developed a new method to target diseased neurons using light, changing their long-term behavior. The approach uses light-sensitive enzymes to create insulating or conductive coatings on cell membranes, tuning excitability in neurons.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 8, 2022

How hormonal birth control may affect the adolescent brain

Research in rats suggests that hormonal contraceptives may alter the developing prefrontal cortex, increasing stress hormone production and disrupting signal transmission. The study's findings have implications for understanding the impact of birth control on teenage behavior and mood.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 15, 2022
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Molecular mechanism behind migration revealed in salt-seeking worms

A team at the University of Tokyo discovered that syntaxin protein plays a vital role in storing memory in the nervous system, influencing the migratory behavior of nematodes. The study found that altering syntaxin can lead to reversed behavior, allowing worms to choose whether to approach or avoid salt concentrations.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022

Eating sea squirts may reverse the signs of ageing, study shows

A new study suggests that supplementing a diet with Ascidiacea, also known as sea squirts, reverses some main signs of aging in animal models. The researchers found that plasmalogens, vital to body processes, decrease with age and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Biosciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

How brain cells pick which connections to keep

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute identified the gene and protein CPG15 that enables brain cells to select permanent synapses based on experience-driven neural activity. Without CPG15, mice exhibit slower learning and reliance on circuit architectures that haven't been refined by experience.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 6, 2019
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