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Brain-doping produced by your own body

Researchers discovered that Epo increases nerve cell production and connections in the brain, leading to improved cognitive performance. Cognitive challenges trigger oxygen deficits, stimulating Epo production, which drives neuroplasticity and neurogenesis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 13, 2020

Scientists eager to explain brain rhythm boost's broad impact in Alzheimer's models

Increasing 40Hz gamma rhythm power in the brain has been shown to strengthen neural connections and improve symptoms in Alzheimer's disease models. The study used light flickering or sound buzzing at 40Hz to achieve this effect, which was found to decline pathological amyloid and tau protein buildups and protect neurons from degeneration.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateDec 11, 2019

Neuron circuitry from brain signals

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a machine learning model that reconstructs neuronal circuitry by analyzing brain signal spikes, estimating the strength of nerve connections with high accuracy. The findings, published in Nature Communications, have the potential to elucidate how different brain regions process information.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 6, 2019

A new vision for neuroscience

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new tool that records and controls neural activity in real-time using genetically encoded voltage indicators. This breakthrough enables the study of complex behaviors and neural interactions with unprecedented clarity.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2019

The brain's auto-complete function

A new study reveals that hippocampal neurons provide pointers to complete memories by firing strongly during recall. This process, called reinstatement, helps the brain reconstruct associated objects from memory, similar to initial learning. The discovery has implications for understanding memory deficits and potential treatments.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

A very human machine

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a novel brain implant that mimics the appearance, size, and flexibility of real neurons, allowing for stable monitoring of neural signals and potential treatment of neurological disorders. The implants inspire negligible immune response and may even encourage tissue regeneration.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2019

Lessons learned from the adult neurogenesis debate

University of British Columbia professor Jason Snyder reviews the conflicting reports on adult neurogenesis in humans, pointing to methodological differences as a major issue. He argues that there is evidence for low rates of neurogenesis in specific brain regions, particularly the hippocampus.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateJan 24, 2019

The irresistible CCL17

Researchers at the University of Bonn have found that CCL17 influences signal transmission in the brain and may be linked to autism. The chemokine is mainly produced by neurons in the hippocampus, a structure involved in tasks such as orientation and memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalGlia·DateSep 13, 2018