Articles tagged with Molecular Neuroscience
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Brain Science discovered neural circuitry in the spinal cord that enables brain-independent motor learning and recall. The study found two critical groups of neurons: one necessary for new adaptive learning and another for recalling adaptations once learned.
A team of researchers found potential ways to interrupt the misfolding of tau proteins by targeting sticky sites along the long form of mutated tau, preventing neurofibrillary tangles. This breakthrough could lead to therapeutic interventions capable of disaggregating or preventing tau aggregation.
Researchers have solved the long-standing question of what triggers the alarm response in fish by identifying two distinct chemical signals: Daniol sulphate and Ostariopterin. These substances convey separate pieces of information that must be detected simultaneously to trigger a flight-or-freeze response.
Researchers developed chronological age prediction models by analyzing gene expression changes in the prefrontal cortex, identifying genes associated with aging and potential mechanisms. The models showed high correlation with age and demonstrated female and male-specific differences.
Researchers developed a new machine learning method to analyze brain data, separating intrinsic neural patterns from sensory inputs. The method revealed surprisingly consistent hidden patterns in three subjects' neural activity despite different tasks.
Researchers found that brain waves are slower in deep cortical layers and faster in superficial layers, with gamma waves dominating the topmost layers. These oscillations may play a fundamental role in brain function and contribute to disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
A new study led by Dr. Richard Naud of the University of Ottawa's Faculty of Medicine tackles the mystery of neuronal response variability, controlling output with dendrites' inputs to the core and little antennas
Researchers have discovered a brain circuit that mediates panic disorder, consisting of specialized neurons that send and receive the neuropeptide PACAP. Inhibiting PACAP signaling reduces panic symptoms, offering promising findings for future treatments.
Researchers established a molecular link between specific B12-producing gut bacteria and acetylcholine production in C. elegans, a neurotransmitter important to memory and cognitive function. A diet rich in these bacteria reduced seizure-like behavior in mutant worms by restoring excitatory/inhibitory balance.
Researchers unveiled an atlas cataloging the location and type of every cell in the adult mouse brain, revealing a complex relationship between genetic identity and spatial position. The map, which charts over 5,300 cell types, provides a detailed 'parts list' for the brain and could pave the way for precision treatments for diseases.
Researchers discovered that apotransferrin can mitigate the damaging effects of intracerebral haemorrhage by guarding against ferropoptosis, a cell death process. This finding highlights the therapeutic potential of apotransferrin as a pre-hospital treatment for stroke patients.
Researchers found that learning occurs through continuous formation of new connections between specific engram cells in different regions of the brain. This process allows us to form and store memories, with changes in synaptic wiring connectivity between these cells being a key mechanism for memory storage.
A team of neuroscientists and physicists at Princeton University studied the brain of Caenorhabditis elegans to understand how information flows through a network of interacting neurons. They used optogenetics to activate individual neurons and observe how other neurons responded, shedding light on the complex neural connections.
Researchers at Imperial College London found that specific brain cells in the prefrontal cortex trigger mice to prepare for bed when tired, a behavior likely shared with humans. This hard-wired survival feature suggests that humans should prioritize sleep hygiene to maintain good health.
Researchers found that individual neurons can stochastically mix and match up to eight different editions of the Complexin 7A protein, leading to varying levels of glutamate release. This variation may endow each neuron with fine degrees of communication control, allowing for robust tuning of multiple features of neuronal output.
A UMass Amherst neuroscientist is mapping the brain of a sea slug to study how neurons are added to functional neural circuits, shedding light on how this process contributes to neurological conditions. The project aims to provide an unprecedented look at brain development and potentially inform human brain development.
A Penn State-led research team discovered that somatostatin signaling acts to dampen communication among cell types in the prefrontal cortex, promoting exploratory and risk-taking-like behavior. The findings suggest that somatostatin fine-tunes circuits to promote certain behaviors, including decision making.
Scientists have identified platelet factor 4 (PF4) as a common messenger for the cognitive benefits of young blood transfusion, exercise, and the longevity hormone klotho. Studies show that PF4 calms down the aged immune system, reducing inflammation and promoting brain plasticity and cognition.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method using nanopores to advance discoveries in neuroscience and medical applications. The technique allows for real-time detection of dynamic aptamer-small molecule interactions, which can aid in understanding DNA and RNA diseases and drug discovery.
Researchers found that Period 1 gene becomes more active in memory-forming region of brain in daylight hours after learning, playing crucial role in consolidating memories. Mice exhibit improved daytime memory performance compared to nighttime.
In a new study, Salk Institute scientists discovered that dopamine regulates anxious worm behavior in the presence of nipping predators. The findings illuminate how this dopamine-regulated brain pathway may be related to anxiety and could provide insight into human conditions like PTSD.
LSU Health New Orleans researchers found that a combination therapy using Neuroprotectin D1 and Resolvin D1 boosted brain cell survival, growth, and stability. The therapy showed promising results in reducing lesion volume and improving neurological function in acute ischemic stroke models.
A team of scientists has developed an automated algorithm to reconstruct the shape of each neuron inside a light microscopy image using deep learning. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of generalizing algorithms across diverse species, brain locations, developmental stages, and microscopy image sets.
Scientists have discovered that increasing expression of the RIT2 gene reduces alpha-synuclein accumulation and protects neurons from cell death in Parkinson's disease. This breakthrough offers hope for developing a simpler intervention to reduce risk of the disease.
Researchers found that a specific neuropeptide affects two separate groups of neurons, promoting aggressive behavior in fruit flies. This discovery provides new insights into the complex mechanisms of neuronal communication using neuropeptides.
A Scripps Research team found that both alcohol intake and withdrawal can lead to increased pain sensitivity in adult mice. The study suggests potential new drug targets for treating alcohol-associated chronic pain and hypersensitivity.
The Center for C. elegans Anatomy is receiving $2.6 million in funding from the NIH to expand WormAtlas, a resource for researchers studying C. elegans and other nematodes. The expansion aims to incorporate new nematode species into the atlas, enabling comparisons between C. elegans and less-studied species.
A new study finds that dietary choline deficiency can cause profound negative effects on the body, including organ damage and changes in brain pathology associated with Alzheimer's disease. The research highlights the importance of adequate choline intake to protect against neurodegeneration and improve overall health.
New expansion microscopy methods, dubbed Magnify, allow researchers to observe nanoscale biological structures with standard microscopes. The protocol retains biomolecules intact, enabling simultaneous imaging of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates.
Neuroscientists have uncovered a brain circuit that enables mice to rapidly escape to shelter when faced with a threat. The retrosplenial cortex and superior colliculus form a circuit that encodes the direction to a shelter, allowing mice to accurately orient and escape.
Chronic stress alters neuronal structure and function in the brain, leading to anxiety disorders. Researchers identified a potential mechanism underlying this change by studying glucocorticoid receptors in mice.
A new study published in Molecular Psychiatry sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying stress-related behaviors, revealing that glutamate cells in the ventral tegmental area play a critical role. The research found that mice exposed to uncontrollable stressors exhibited more pronounced anxiety-like behavior, whereas those with c...
Researchers discovered that krill oil protects dopaminergic neurons from age-related degeneration through temporal transcriptome rewiring and suppression of several hallmarks of aging. Krill oil increases neuronal resilience, promoting anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation, and abrogating multiple aging hallmarks.
A new hallmark of ALS has been identified, revealing that loss of the RNA processing protein SFPQ leads to motor neuron degeneration. Defective mRNAs accumulate in axons and interfere with normal function, pointing to a possible new target for therapy.
The study provides detailed pictures of NMDA receptors, which mediate essential signals between neurons. The findings have significant implications for treating schizophrenia, depression, and other neuropsychiatric conditions.
Dr. Ted Price is leading a $11.3 million NIH multicenter project to elucidate the origins of pain, focusing on human nociceptor and spinal cord molecular signatures. Researchers will study DRG tissue from organ donors to understand how neurons communicate signals along the human pain pathway.
A research team has identified a specific cell group in the brain that regulates shifts in the sleep-wake rhythm caused by psychostimulants. The hypothalamic dopamine locus is responsible for modulating circadian rhythms and gates the effect of psychostimulants, leading to increased alertness and activity.
Dr. Inagaki will receive $2.895 million in funding to study the brain's ability to learn new behaviors and explore its molecular and neuronal activity. He aims to understand diseases and injuries that affect learning and memory.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that brain stimulation combined with a nose spray containing nanoparticles can improve recovery after ischemic stroke. The treatment increased cognitive and motor functions, and weighed more quickly than those treated with TMS alone.
The Allen Institute is leading a global collaboration to create detailed atlases of the human brain and its cells. The project aims to understand brain function and structure, with applications in treating diseases of the brain.
A team of neuroscientists at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University aim to create an ultra-high resolution molecular atlas of the brain, enabling precise gene delivery to specific cell types. This project has the potential to revolutionize treatment of fatal brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
A team of scientists generated a molecular atlas of the Australian bearded dragon's brain, comparing it to mouse data. The findings suggest that both reptilian and mammalian brains evolved clade-specific neuron types from a common ancestral set, challenging popular views on brain evolution.
The report explores diffuse optical imaging methods applicable to noninvasive human studies, including near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS). It introduces state-of-the-art technologies and software, exploring their impact on neuroscience and clinical applications.
A new study published in Frontiers found that excessive blue light exposure can alter cellular functions in fruit flies, potentially leading to accelerated aging. The researchers discovered changes in metabolites essential for cell function and communication between neurons.
Researchers argue that neurons proactively trigger influx of needed substances to survive, creating a systemwide group of metabolically cooperating cells. This principle is central to learning, driving human behavior. The study aims to explore tumour cell responses to individual behaviors and develop new cancer treatments.
Researchers at National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology found that p62 selectively degrades toxic tau species, preventing neurodegenerative disorders. The study demonstrates the pivotal role of p62 in suppressing abnormal protein aggregates using mouse models of dementia.
Researchers elucidated the molecular mechanisms of acetylcholine in learning and memory, revealing a signaling cascade involving protein kinase C. The study opens doors to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
A Rutgers study analyzing brain stem cells of autism patients found irregularities in early brain development, supporting the concept that ASD arises from poor control of brain cell proliferation. The study discovered that some patients had NPCs producing too many brain cells while others had underproduced cells.
A study led by Tel Aviv University researchers reveals a common mechanism underlying genetic mutations associated with autism, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders. The discovery points to an experimental drug developed by the team as a potential treatment for these conditions.
A study in a mouse model found that viral infections during pregnancy can affect the mother's brain and disrupt maternal care behavior after birth. The research team identified structural, molecular, and functional changes in the brains of mothers with viral-like immune activation.
A receptor protein called insulin receptor is pivotal for brain stem cell longevity, according to a Rutgers study. The researchers also found that the same protein plays a crucial role in sustaining brain cancer cells.
The latest neurophotonic tools and techniques are reviewed in a new status report, covering advances from molecular nanoprobes to cortical column imaging. The report provides an overview of current state and future directions for brain science research.
Researchers found that mice with the Val89 gene variant exhibit attention deficit disorder-like problems, including diminished cognitive performance and increased vulnerability to distraction. The study provides direct evidence of the genetic variant's effects on acetylcholine availability and its resulting cognitive impacts.
Researchers are combining optogenetics and fMRI to study the links between brain activity and behavior. This hybrid approach allows for targeted manipulation and monitoring of brain function in awake and behaving rodents, providing valuable insights into neural mechanisms.
Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have identified a key mechanism by which the coronavirus causes inflammation in the brain's immune cells, potentially explaining some symptoms experienced by COVID-19 patients. The study suggests that adequate funding is needed to further develop this research and its potential applications.
Researchers discovered that an inorganic polyphosphate released by nerve cells contributes to the death of motor neurons in people with ALS and frontotemporal dementia. The study found that lowering levels of this toxin may be an innovative therapeutic strategy for diverse types of ALS/FTD.
Scientists demonstrate a definitive link between mitochondrial oxidative damage and cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease using a transgenic mouse model. The study found that Aβ1-42 aggregation in the hippocampus caused cognitive impairment, while oxidation led to mitochondrial dysfunction.
A new study by the University of Arizona has identified a brain region and neural circuitry that mediate satiation, making it possible to create treatments with fewer side effects for eating disorders and weight management. The parasubthalamic nucleus plays a key role in regulating feelings of fullness after eating.
A new study published in Nature Communications found that amylin peptide plays a crucial role in regulating social contact-seeking behavior in female mice. The researchers discovered that isolation leads to a decrease in amylin levels, while social reunion increases them.
Researchers will use transcriptomics and chemogenetics to identify molecular targets for pain management. The project aims to advance knowledge on pain mechanisms and develop novel therapeutic strategies.