Molecular Neuroscience
Articles tagged with Molecular Neuroscience
Genomic Press launches Brain Health, a new peer-reviewed journal of lifelong brain resilience, with inaugural interview featuring Luísa Pinto on glial plasticity
Genomic Press launches Brain Health, a new peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the science of lifelong brain resilience, featuring research on glial plasticity and recovery from depression. The inaugural issue explores the intersection of fields including cognitive reserve, sleep, aging biology, nutritional psychiatry, and social sciences.
How can the same genetic mutation lead to different clinical outcomes?
Researchers developed a framework to study the impact of genetic variants on neurodevelopmental disorders. By analyzing induced pluripotent stem cells, they found that genetic background can lead to different clinical outcomes in individuals with the same deletion on chromosome 16.
EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium to convene neuroscience community in Munich
The EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium will bring together the global neuroscience community to shape the EBRAINS 10-Year-Roadmap. A total of 159 submissions from 134 unique contributors across 25 countries have been received, reflecting the momentum of Europe's digital neuroscience landscape.
Ten early-career neuroscientists selected as 2026 Leon Levy Scholars across New York City
The 2026 cohort of Leon Levy Scholars in Neuroscience will pursue research projects addressing neurological disorders and developing new treatments. The program provides scientific and professional career development opportunities, including mentorship and networking.
Scientists reverse brain aging, with a nasal spray
Researchers developed a nasal spray that reversibly reduces brain inflammation, restores cellular power plants, and improves memory. The treatment bypasses the brain's protective shield through intranasal delivery, suppressing chronic inflammation and promoting successful brain aging.
Chinese Medical Journal article white matter lesions modifying endovascular therapy outcomes in large ischemic core stroke: A secondary analysis of the ANGEL-ASPECT trial
A secondary analysis of the ANGEL-ASPECT trial found EVT to be beneficial for patients with anterior-circulation LVO and a large ischemic core and absent-to-moderate white matter lesions. In contrast, those with severe WMLs showed less pronounced benefits, suggesting uncertainty about EVT's efficacy in this subgroup.
FAU’s Lawrence Toll, Ph.D., named senior member, National Academy of Inventors
Lawrence Toll has been named a senior member of the National Academy of Inventors for his pioneering work on pain pathways, reward systems, and potential treatments. His research focuses on identifying new drug targets and therapeutic strategies to combat chronic pain and addiction.
Neuroscientist from US-Mexico border dismantles science’s class problem from the inside
Dr. Cazares co-founded Colors of the Brain and advocated for GRE removal to support students from underprivileged backgrounds. He aims to bring neuroscience to underserved communities through portable, affordable, and non-invasive methods.
First comprehensive sex-specific atlas of GLP-1 in the mouse brain reveals why blockbuster weight-loss drugs may work differently in females and males
Researchers mapped GLP-1 expression in 25 brain regions in each sex, uncovering striking differences in key circuits. The atlas reveals sex-biased expression in certain medullary nuclei, with higher Glp1 densities and numbers of Glp1-expressing neurons in females compared to males.
FAU awarded $2.4M NIH grant to study immune signaling and social behavior
Researchers will investigate the role of interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1) in brain function, behavior, and psychiatric health. The study aims to define the physiological role of IL-1R1 in the brain and explore its influence on social behaviors.
Keeping neurons on the right path
Researchers identify nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) as a central mediator of neuronal migration and cortical lamination. The study reveals that UPF2, a core component of NMD machinery, is essential for proper neuron migration and brain development.
Chronic alcohol use reshapes gene expression in key human brain regions linked to relapse vulnerability and neural damage
Chronic alcohol consumption alters endocannabinoid gene expression in reward- and decision-related brain regions, offering insights into addiction biology. This study reveals changes in CB1 and CB2 receptor genes, as well as GPR55 and FAAH enzymes, potentially leading to targeted therapeutic strategies.
Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum 2026, 6-10 July, Barcelona, Spain
The FENS Forum 2026 will be Europe's largest neuroscience congress, covering areas of basic to translational research. Journalists can register for free and attend symposia and poster sessions.
Korea University’s College of Medicine held the 2025 Joint Forum with Yale University
The Korea University-Yale University Joint Forum aimed to discuss expanding cooperation in neuroscience and training physician scientists. Key findings include agreements for annualizing the joint forum and discussing research topics for future forums.
New research connects heart attacks to brain, nervous and immune systems
Researchers have uncovered a new understanding of how cardiac events are interconnected with the brain and nervous/immune systems. They found that sensory neurons in the vagus nerve detect injury and transfer signals to dedicated brain structures, leading to activation of the immune system.
A new atlas could help guide researchers studying neurological disease
A new study has created a comprehensive atlas of lysosomal proteins in the brain, shedding light on the functions and dysfunctions of these cellular components. The data, which includes 790 proteins associated with lysosomes, could help scientists better understand neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Discovery reveals how keto diet can prevent seizures when drugs fail
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have discovered how the keto diet protects against epilepsy seizures by regulating brain cell activity. The team found that a specific cellular receptor, HCAR2, plays a crucial role in reducing seizures, and may be targeted for new treatments.
Mapping the dance of circadian synchrony
A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis developed a computational tool to reveal connections in the mouse suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the body's central circadian pacemaker. The study identified five functional cell types and found that a small subset of 'hub' cells are critical to SCN timekeeping.
Neuroscience research reveals synapse functions, relationships in detail
Research from Colorado State University sheds light on the regulation of chemical balance in the brain, focusing on GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps calm brain activity. The study provides insights into how neurons maintain effective communication with each other, even when GABA is produced far from synapses.
Disappointment alters brain chemistry and behavior
A mouse study by Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology researchers has found that acetylcholine release is essential for breaking habits and enabling new choices to be made. The study's findings may help understand diseases such as Parkinson's disease, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Brain tumor patients miss out on new treatments due to unequal access to tumor freezing and genetic testing, study warns
A recent UK study has highlighted the need for equitable investment and adoption of new innovations in brain tumor care. The research team found that genomic testing has expanded rapidly but many services are struggling to keep pace, leading to regional inequalities in access to advanced treatments.
Proteins critical to cell electrical signaling built from scratch
Researchers have developed new calcium channels that can be precisely controlled to study cellular signaling. The channels, built using artificial intelligence, were designed to mimic natural calcium channels and demonstrate their potential as tools for biomedical research.
Astrocytes are superstars in the game of long-term memory
A new study reveals that astrocytes, a type of glial cell, are responsible for stabilizing memories through repeated engagement. The researchers found that Fos activity in astrocytes only occurs during recall, and that these cells can be activated to produce stable memories.
Two Mount Sinai research papers present evidence of distinct molecular differences between brain tissue from living people and tissue collected after death
New research papers from Mount Sinai present unprecedented evidence that brain tissue from living individuals has a unique molecular character, differing significantly from postmortem samples. These findings challenge the conventional practice of using postmortem brain tissue for studying the human brain and its diseases.
Scientists create ChatGPT-like AI model for neuroscience to build one of the most detailed mouse brain maps to date
Researchers have developed an AI model that creates a detailed map of the mouse brain featuring 1,300 regions/subregions. The CellTransformer model uses spatial transcriptomics data to identify previously uncharted subregions of the brain, opening new avenues for neuroscience exploration.
The “Catch-22” of aging: Our immune system protects us by committing our cells to die
Researchers from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified a common process that powers the creation of protein formations that assemble like a 3D puzzle, triggering inflammation and cell death. This 'Catch-22' mechanism may be one of the fundamental reasons why we age.
$15.7 million in new grants awarded to scientists at Wertheim UF Scripps
Scientists at Wertheim UF Scripps Institute have been awarded $15.7 million in new grants to advance projects on brain biology, infectious diseases, and cancer research over the next five years. The grants will help develop innovative solutions to some of medicine's most difficult challenges.
Nuclear speckle rejuvenation “next frontier” for treating neurodegeneration
Researchers have discovered a new approach for treating proteinopathies by targeting dysregulated nuclear speckles, which can lead to neuron degeneration. Pyrvinium pamoate has been shown to improve proteostasis in various disease models, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and tauopathies.
Metabolism may unlock the secret to a deeper understanding of neurodegeneration
Researchers have discovered that dialing down sugar metabolism can break down neural integrity, but manipulating this process can also activate protective programs in neurons. Two proteins, DLK and SARM1, are involved in extending axon health, with their activity influenced by the cell's internal conditions.
Tracing brain chemistry across humanity’s family tree
Researchers found that a single amino acid substitution in the ADSL enzyme affects its stability and expression, contributing to modern human differences in behavior. The study suggests that this change may have provided an evolutionary advantage in certain tasks.
Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms behind premature aging of the brain
A recent study published in The EMBO Journal reveals that the Setd8 gene plays a critical role in the premature aging of the brain by controlling neural stem cell activity and proliferation. Artificially lowering Setd8 levels mimicked molecular signatures of aging, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for early aging.
FAU receives NIH grant to investigate amphetamine addiction
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are using a genetically tractable model organism, C. elegans, to dissect the cellular pathways impacted by amphetamines. The study aims to identify novel regulators of dopamine release and genes that mediate amphetamine's effects independently of traditional dopamine mechanisms.
From injury to agony: Scientists discover brain pathway that turns pain into suffering
Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a brain circuit that gives physical pain its emotional tone, revealing a potential target for treating chronic and affective pain conditions. The study found that a group of neurons in the thalamus can mediate the emotional side of pain in mice.
Nerve cells learn to grow
Researchers identified a family of RNA molecules, B2-SINEs, that stimulate growth in peripheral nerves and brain neurons after injury. These findings may lead to new treatments for nerve injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.
NYUAD researchers find link between brain growth and mental health disorders
A study by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers has found a key mechanism that shapes brain development and how it may be disrupted in autism and schizophrenia. The research reveals the role of m6A methylation in regulating protein production in growing neurons.
Gilles Martin identifies neurons associated with the suppression of binge drinking
Researchers have identified a specific group of neurons in the brain responsible for suppressing binge drinking behavior. The discovery may lead to new therapeutic targets for treating alcohol dependency and related health challenges.
Vesicle cycle model reveals inner workings of brain synapse
Researchers have successfully modeled the synaptic vesicle cycle with unprecedented detail, shedding new light on how our brains function. The model predicts parameters of synaptic function that could not be tested experimentally, opening new avenues for neuroscience investigations.
Different versions of APOE protein have varying effect on microglia in Alzheimer's disease
New research reveals distinct effects of APOE isoforms on human microglia function, with APOE4 increasing inflammation and APOE2 promoting proliferation and migration. The study suggests targeted interventions based on APOE genotypes may be crucial in disease progression.
How molecules can ‘remember’ and contribute to memory and learning
Ion channels can 'remember' previous signals, leading to changes in the receiving neuron that last for hours or days. This collective memory can accumulate over time, reducing communication between neurons and contributing to lifelong learning.
Can frisky flies save human lives?
Researchers found that Wolbachia bacteria makes infected female fruit flies more likely to mate and lay eggs, potentially helping to curb mosquito-borne diseases. The study also identified key proteins that influence mating behavior in infected females.
University of Ottawa-led research team forges compelling new insights into dynamics of the brain’s serotonin system
A University of Ottawa-led study reveals that serotonin neurons are connected and interact with each other, controlling serotonin release in specific regions of the brain. This complex system has implications for understanding decision-making and developing targeted therapeutics for mood disorders.
Novel brain study increases understanding of what triggers drug use relapse
A novel brain study uncovers the critical role of the HDAC5 enzyme in regulating gene expression and neuronal activity, which can trigger relapse in individuals with substance use disorders. The study highlights a new molecular target for developing novel treatments to reduce relapse risk.
Major themes and growth areas in the application of AI in the neurosciences shown in inaugural issue of AI in neuroscience
A new review article identifies major themes in AI application to neurosciences, including a 5-fold increase in AI-related publications. The study also notes a surge of over 13-fold in clinical neurology AI-related publications in the past decade.
WVU neuroscientists fine-tune zinc activity to improve messaging in brain
Researchers at WVU have discovered a way to fine-tune zinc activity to improve messaging in the brain, with potential applications for treating conditions such as autism, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. The study identified new compounds that can selectively change synaptic connections by modulating zinc levels.
The Open Brain Institute announces the dawn of a new frontier in neuroscience
The Open Brain Institute launches a groundbreaking platform to simulate and study digital brains, empowering researchers to explore brain complexity and diseases. With its virtual neuroscience laboratories, the OBI enables global collaboration and access to cutting-edge virtual labs.
Nwd1 gene deletion triggers MASH-like pathology in mice: a new scientific breakthrough
The study highlights the role of the Nwd1 gene in liver disease and its potential as a therapeutic target. Mice with Nwd1 gene deletion exhibited liver pathologies mirroring MASH, including excessive lipid accumulation and increased ER stress.
Hearing triggered by molecular “spring”
Researchers from the University of Göttingen have discovered a molecular 'spring' that triggers the opening of ion channels in sensory hair cells of the ear. The findings provide new insights into how hearing begins at the molecular level and shed light on the function of ion channels.
A string of pearls: Study challenges long-held beliefs about shape, functioning of nerve cells
Researchers propose a new model for understanding how information is transmitted in the brain by describing a unique axon morphology that changes size and modulates action potential speed
The genetic roots of rare mutations in Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers uncovered how mutated PSEN2 accelerates disease progression in familial Alzheimer's disease by impairing synaptic function and disrupting cellular processes.
The female locust's digging valves wear out after completing their task -digging three to four egg-laying pits in a lifetime
Researchers found that female locust's digging valves wear down significantly despite being used only 3-4 times in a lifetime. The study demonstrates the 'good enough' principle in evolution, where extra resources are not invested in organs with specific purposes performed adequately.
A new clock to structure sleep
Researchers identified a novel role for the locus coeruleus in facilitating transition between NREM and REM sleep states while maintaining unconscious vigilance. Stress disrupts its functions, negatively impacting sleep quality. The study provides crucial insights into sleep disorders and could lead to improved treatments.
Innovative protocol maps NMDA receptors in Alzheimer's-Affected brains
The study found decreased NMDA receptors in synapses and increased extrasynaptic membranes in Alzheimer's patients, suggesting neuronal toxicity-related activity. The novel protocol allows for precise analysis of these receptors in human postmortem brains, paving the way for new therapeutic approaches.
Study: How can low-dose ketamine, a ‘lifesaving’ drug for major depression, alleviate symptoms within hours? UB research reveals how
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have identified the binding site of low-dose ketamine, revealing how it alleviates major depression symptoms within hours. The study also identifies how depression originates in the brain and may lead to further research on using ketamine-like drugs for other brain disorders.
New insight into brain stability: the key role of NMDA receptors
Researchers discovered that NMDA receptors set the baseline level for neural network activity, helping maintain stable brain function. The study's findings suggest potential innovative treatments for diseases linked to disrupted neural stability.
Human proteins identified that explain inter-individual differences in functional brain connectivity
Researchers identified hundreds of brain proteins associated with inter-individual differences in functional connectivity and structural covariation. The proteins were enriched for those involved in synapses, energy metabolism, and RNA processing, providing insights into the mechanistic basis of human cognition and behavior.
Cannabis use in adolescence: Visible effects on brain structure
A study led by Graciela Pineyro and Tomas Paus found that cannabis use in adolescence can lead to thinning of the cerebral cortex, affecting communication between neurons. The researchers used a combination of methods to demonstrate THC's impact on brain cells and identified genes associated with cortical thinning.
International project will explore how molecular evolution enables animals to adapt to extreme cold
The international project will analyze temperature-sensitive proteins in animals adapted to different thermal environments to understand how they perceive temperature changes. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying cold perception in animals, enabling them to initiate physiological responses crucial for survival.
Cancer cell populations segregate to favor metastasis or antitumor inflammation
A recent study published in Nature Cancer has discovered that cancer cells exhibit opposing pro and antitumor programs, with the former promoting metastasis and the latter combating tumor growth. This finding opens new avenues for therapeutic strategies to target highly aggressive and therapy-resistant tumors.
Extended Timing: How neurons encode information on timescales that match learning
Researchers identified key aspects of how neurons integrate information over seconds, a timescale consistent with behavior. They found that CaMKII is an instructive signal for this process, but does not define synapse specificity, revealing a broader time window for synaptic plasticity.