Neurology

UCLA to lead $9M study on pesticides’, air pollutants’ link to Parkinson’s disease risk

Chinese Medical Journal study examines rising neurological disease burden in China

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal reports KRAS gene as key driver for brain arteriovenous malformation

Capital Medical University study spots early signal to protect vision during brain tumor surgery

New Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study report novel surgical strategy for moyamoya disease

Researchers develop tailored revascularization approach for moyamoya disease, improving circulation while minimizing complications. The technique, called STAPC, uses vessel diameter, blood-flow dynamics, and recipient brain arteries to guide surgical decisions.

What factors might account for the increased risk of autism in children with epilepsy?

A large population-based study found that children with epilepsy have a significantly higher risk of also having autism spectrum disorder. The study highlighted key differences between children with co-occurring conditions, including intellectual disability and age of diagnosis.

New MRI technology provides a comprehensive view of the human brain

Researchers developed multiplexed MRI technology, enabling simultaneous imaging of signals from multiple molecules in the brain. The technology provides a comprehensive view of the brain's structure, physiology, and molecular processes, allowing for more precise diagnosis and individualized treatment planning.

Epilepsy "brain blips" revealed by high-definition probes

Researchers discovered that interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) occur in a predictable pattern, unfolding sequentially in individual neurons. Nearly 80% of IED-involving neurons are also involved in language and perception, suggesting the brain blips can derail cognition.

Severe narcolepsy found to damage a second brain region

Researchers found significant loss of neurons in the locus coeruleus, a second critical region involved in arousal and muscle tone regulation. This finding suggests an immune-mediated process and challenges the prevailing explanation for narcolepsy with cataplexy.

Neurophysiology: How the brain recovers from noise-induced damage

Scientists found that the brain adapts to noise-induced damage within 24 hours by increasing excitability and inhibitory inputs in the superior paraolivary nucleus. This enables the restoration of critical timing information for sound processing, despite diminished sensitivity to quieter sounds.

Study finds people wait an average of 50 days to see a neurologist for the first time

A study found that people with commercial insurance plans waited an average of 50 days for their first neurology appointment. Wait times were affected by factors such as sex, race, neurological condition, and insurance type.

New experimental drug may restore movement after stroke

Researchers discovered that strokes cause a chain reaction within the brain, leading to neuronal cell death. They found that blocking collagen production can prevent this damage and even restore motor function in paralyzed monkeys. The new drug KDS12025 reduces hydrogen peroxide levels and prevents the entire process from being triggered.

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.

Study finds that sleep apnea may be widespread — and often underdiagnosed or undertreated — among former professional football players

A recent study found that nearly 69% of former professional football players may have sleep apnea, with many cases going undiagnosed. Untreated sleep apnea is linked to worse mental, cognitive, and physical health outcomes among former athletes.

Low-dose triple-pill cut risk of recurrent stroke by about 40%, global trial shows

A global trial involving 1,670 patients with intracerebral haemorrhage found that treatment with a single pill combination of three low-dose blood pressure medicines reduced the risk of another stroke by 39%. The study showed significant benefits in reducing major cardiovascular events and improving blood pressure control.

Patients with higher markers of marginalization more likely to rely on emergency departments for concussion care, study finds

A new study found that patients experiencing socioeconomic marginalization are more likely to seek initial concussion care in hospital emergency departments, leading to lower follow-up rates. Patients without family physicians were up to 70% less likely to follow up.

Virtual vs. in-person visits for new neurology patients and the impact on future care

A new study by the American Academy of Neurology found that virtual and in-person visits for new neurology patients have no significant difference in follow-up clinic visits or emergency department hospitalizations. However, some conditions like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis showed a higher need for follow-up evaluations a...

Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric low-grade gliomas in China (2024)

Pediatric low-grade gliomas require distinct treatment strategies, with a focus on molecular diagnosis and age-appropriate treatment. The new Chinese guidelines cover imaging, pathology, surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic therapy, aiming to maximize tumor control while protecting neurodevelopment.

Mayo Clinic researcher awarded Breakthrough Prize for ALS-dementia gene discovery

Rosa Rademakers' groundbreaking discovery of the C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion revealed a common genetic origin for ALS and frontotemporal dementia, transforming how scientists study and diagnose these conditions.

Gut microbiome changes may signal Parkinson's disease risk

A new study reveals that people with Parkinson's disease have a distinct gut microbiome, as do those at genetic risk but without symptoms. This could lead to early detection and potential prevention strategies.

Evaluation of target irregularity as a potential parameter in gamma knife treatment planning

A retrospective study evaluates morphological irregularity parameters in Gamma Knife treatment planning for vestibular schwannoma patients. The analysis revealed strong correlations between these parameters and treatment plan outcomes, suggesting potential improvements in planning strategies.

Application of a new combined surgical strategy in spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage

A new combined surgical strategy outperforms conventional methods in treating spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage by enabling rapid ICP reduction and efficient hematoma clearance. This approach showed improved outcomes in selected patients, but further studies are needed to validate its efficacy.

NYU Langone Health neurologists present latest clinical findings and research at AAN 2026

NYU Langone Health experts present platform talks on practical strategies to counter medical misinformation, phase 3 X-TOLE2 trial results for novel epilepsy treatment, and exploring healthcare accessibility for patients with disabilities. The Department of Neurology features over 80 presentations from faculty members.

New drug combination doubles down on Alzheimer's treatments

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered a safer and more effective way to treat Alzheimer's disease by combining anti-amyloid antibodies with molecules found in grapes, berries, peanuts, and turmeric. This combination approach neutralizes amyloid protein clumping in the brain, leading to better outcomes.

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.

Setting standards of care for brain injuries in first responders

Researchers at Ohio State University developed the first evidence-based guidelines for traumatic brain injury recognition and management in first responders. The guidelines aim to improve care and support for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and others who risk head injuries on the job.

Transforming high-quality care at East Campus Medical Center

East Campus Medical Center has doubled its average daily census since 2024, with over 4,000 patients transferring to the hospital from other UC San Diego Health locations. The hospital now offers expanded services in cardiology, gastroenterology, and more, with a focus on continuity and relationship-based medicine.

Common virus plus mono associated with increased risk of MS

A study published in Neurology Open Access found that having infectious mononucleosis caused by the Epstein-Barr virus is associated with an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. After adjusting for other factors, researchers found that people with a history of mono were three times more likely to develop MS.

NIH awards $15.8 million to UC Davis Health for major Hispanic-Latino brain health study

The NIH grant will support the creation of a comprehensive long-term dataset on Hispanic and Latino brain aging, examining the factors that matter most for healthy cognitive aging. The study aims to understand how Alzheimer's disease, vascular injury, and other brain changes develop over time in Latino adults.

Large clinical RCT trial finds no clear added benefit of catheter ablation for preventing recurrent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation

A nationwide Japanese trial found that catheter ablation did not reduce the risk of recurrent stroke or major cardiovascular events in patients with atrial fibrillation who had recently experienced a stroke. The study, which enrolled 251 patients and followed them for over three years, suggests that routine addition of catheter ablatio...

Discovery of ALS-related genes may provide a starting point for new treatments

Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht have discovered new genetic abnormalities associated with ALS, improving understanding and providing leads for targeted treatments.

New brain–heart guideline takes holistic approach to chronic disease management

The new brain–heart clinical practice guideline provides a holistic approach to managing chronic diseases by integrating neurologic and mental health evidence with cardiovascular guidance. The guideline aims to improve the management of patients with concurrent brain and heart diseases, which often co-occur and share similar risk factors.

A long-term and scalable system to record from neural organoids

Researchers at King's College London have developed a new brain organoid system that reduces variability and allows for longer-term recordings of neural activity. The approach enables the simultaneous study of multiple parallel cultures, providing a better understanding of how drugs or gene variants affect neural networks.

Birth control pills, IUDs not associated with brain pressure disorder

A meta-analysis published in Neurology found no link between hormonal contraception and an increased risk of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. The study included over 5,000 participants and covered various types of birth control methods.

Broad collaboration produces high-resolution atlas of developing human brain

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have created a detailed cellular roadmap of human brain development, utilizing data from nearly 200 studies and 30 million cells. The atlas provides insight into genetic links and pathways involved in conditions like autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease.

Scientists discover new genetic disease that causes premature aging and cognitive deficits

Researchers define a new genetic disease marked by premature aging and brain function deficits, tracing the cause to a mutated IVNS1ABP gene. The study uses genome sequencing and cellular reprogramming to identify potential treatment targets.

Effects of exercise and intensive vascular risk reduction on cognitive function in older adults

A multicenter randomized clinical trial found no significant differences in cognitive improvement between exercise, intensive pharmacological reduction of cardiovascular risk factors, or both in older adults. The study results challenge current recommendations on lifestyle modifications for dementia prevention.

Thirty-year trends in multiple sclerosis prevalence, lifestyle factors, and mortality in England

Multiple sclerosis prevalence more than doubled in England's healthcare system over 30 years, while survival rates increased. Lifestyle factors, including tobacco use and socioeconomic deprivation, were significantly associated with mortality.

For the first time, Robert A. Winn Career Development Award opens to neuropsychiatry investigator-physicians

The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program is expanding its career development award to include neuropsychiatry researcher-physicians. This expansion aims to improve clinical trial enrollment and represent diverse patient populations affected by complex disorders.

Gut microbiota and the gut–brain axis: Mechanisms and therapeutic hopes for brain diseases

The gut microbiota influences the central nervous system (CNS) through neural, immune, endocrine, and metabolic pathways. Dysregulation of this axis is linked to various neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease.

Researchers unravel the brain mechanisms underlying working memory

A groundbreaking study has identified a molecular pathway in the brain crucial for working memory, revealing the Munc13-1 protein's role in temporarily strengthening synapses to retain information. Disruptions to this protein have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, highlighting its importance in healthy brain function.

New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors

A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...

Overlooked brainstem pathway controls human hands

A new study identifies a previously unknown brainstem pathway controlling hand and arm movements, revealing a multi-stage pathway integrating signals from the cortex, brainstem, and spinal networks. This finding may lead to new therapies for stroke rehabilitation, providing additional targets for neuromodulation treatments.

Carsten Bönnemann, MD, joins St. Jude to expand research on pediatric catastrophic neurological disorders

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital appoints Carsten Bönnemann, MD, to lead the newly created Department of Genomic and Translational Neuroscience, focusing on catastrophic neurological disorders. The department aims to develop genetic precision therapies and advance research into complex pediatric neurological conditions.

In former college athletes, more concussions associated with worse brain health

A study of 3,910 former college athletes found that those with three or more concussions had worse physical, mental, and cognitive health five years after graduation. Athletes with one to two concussions also showed signs of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression.

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal reports new therapy for hard-to-treat brain aneurysms

A prospective multicenter study found Woven EndoBridge therapy safe and effective for unruptured wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms in Chinese patients. The therapy promotes durable aneurysm occlusion with minimal risks.

AAN issues guidance on the use of wearable devices

The American Academy of Neurology provides guidance on the use of wearable devices for neurological care, highlighting their benefits and limitations. Wearable devices can serve as screening tools for heart rate and cardiac arrhythmia, and can be helpful in disease management for epilepsy, but their use also carries risks and limitations.

GLP-1 receptor agonist use and survival among patients with type 2 diabetes and brain metastases

Patients with type 2 diabetes and brain metastases who used GLP-1 receptor agonists showed a significant reduction in all-cause mortality. The use of these medications was associated with reduced neuroinflammation, preservation of the blood-brain barrier, and lowered oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Thousands of genetic variants shape epilepsy risk, and most remain hidden

A mini-review synthesizes large-scale genomic findings to illuminate the polygenic architecture underlying common epilepsies. Rare genetic variants contribute to epilepsy risk, with shared biological pathways involving ion channel function and synaptic excitability

Many patients want to talk about their faith. Neurologists often don't know how.

Patients with neurological diseases face profound questions about identity, purpose, and meaning, but neurologists often lack training and tools to address these concerns. A new paper offers practical strategies for incorporating spiritual assessment into routine neurological care.

Maternal acetaminophen use and child neurodevelopment

A study in Taiwan found a positive association between maternal prenatal acetaminophen use and increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in offspring. However, associations were not observed in sibling-matched analyses, suggesting unaddressed sources of bias.

Improving your biological age gap is associated with better brain health

A study found that improving the gap between biological age and chronological age is associated with a lower risk of stroke and improved signs of damage in the brain. Participants who narrowed their biological age gaps were 23% less likely to have a stroke, while those with larger gaps had worse brain scans and higher risks.

In MS, wearable sensors may help identify people at risk of worsening disability

A study found that people with changes in their activity patterns were more likely to have worsening disability and loss of brain volume than those whose patterns did not change. Wearable sensors measure physical activity, time spent sitting or inactive, and circadian rhythms.

Study: Football associated with nearly one in five brain injuries in youth sports

Youth football is associated with nearly 1 in 5 traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in children and young adults. Football players are also more likely to experience repeat TBIs, with 37% of cases occurring in athletes who participated in the sport.

Air pollution from wildfires linked to higher rate of stroke

A preliminary study found that short-term exposure to wildfire smoke was associated with a higher incidence and severity of stroke, particularly in patients with elevated ozone and particulate matter levels. The study suggests that public health interventions during wildfires are crucial for preventing strokes.

Research spotlight: Exploring the neural basis of visual imagination

A recent study mapped brain injuries in individuals with acquired aphantasia and found that all cases were connected to the fusiform imagery node. This suggests a critical role for this region in maintaining visual imagination. The findings have implications for rehabilitation strategies and understanding of cognitive function.

UCF researcher developing new therapy to treat diabetic neuropathy

A UCF researcher is pursuing innovative approaches to treat diabetic neuropathy without relying on pain pills and anti-depressants. Dr. Jim Nichols is investigating overlooked mechanisms in the body that may show how insulin deficiency affects sensation in limbs.

Catheter ablation and oral anticoagulation for secondary stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

A recent study found that standard therapy plus catheter ablation did not significantly reduce the risk of primary composite end point in patients with atrial fibrillation and a recent stroke history. The observed event rate was lower than anticipated, suggesting underpowered detection of clinically meaningful differences.

Newer groundwater associated with higher risk of Parkinson’s disease

A preliminary study found that people with drinking water from newer groundwater had a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study suggested that groundwater age and location may be potential environmental risk factors for the disease, with older groundwater from carbonate aquifers showing a protective effect.

Low-dose lithium for mild cognitive impairment

Researchers investigated low-dose lithium as a potential treatment for mild cognitive impairment in a pilot clinical trial. The study found that none of the primary outcomes met the significance threshold, but effect size estimates suggest potential benefits for future trials.