Research on nerve cells and the circuits they form. Covers neural mapping, brain development, the striatum, and single-neuron recording.
Researchers developed a novel fluorescent probe to visualize AMPA receptors on living brain cells, revealing that new receptors are inserted from inside the cell during long-term potentiation. This breakthrough allows for rapid study of synapse strength and plasticity, shedding light on memory formation and learning.
Researchers found that inhibitory neurons born later in brain development mature faster than those produced earlier, ensuring a balanced neural network. This regulation is controlled by genetic mechanisms and may contribute to developmental disorders.
A recent study using machine learning and computational modeling reveals that astrocytes play a more active role in brain function than previously thought. Astrocytes subtly modulate communication between neurons during synchronous brain activity, influencing network coordination and stability.
A specific group of neurons in the amygdala has been identified as a key player in anxiety, depression, and altered social behavior. Restoring balance to this area can reverse these behaviors in mice.
A new study from the Buck Institute has uncovered how breaking down glycogen in neurons may protect against toxic protein buildup and degeneration. Researchers found that restoring an enzyme called glycogen phosphorylase can reduce tau-related damage and improve oxidative stress reduction.
Researchers found that low-intensity rTMS can increase synaptic plasticity of cortical axons in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in excitatory boutons. This suggests potential as a targeted treatment to improve quality of life for AD patients.
Researchers discovered that exploring environments can encode visual features, speeding up learning when tasks arise. The study found that unsupervised learning occurs even without specific goals or tasks.
Scientists have discovered the structure and shape of key receptors in the cerebellum, a region critical for movement, balance, and cognition. This finding could lead to the development of therapies to repair damaged synapses and improve brain function.
A UC Riverside study found that Toxoplasma gondii can significantly disrupt brain function by interfering with communication between brain cells. Infected neurons release fewer extracellular vesicles, which can lead to seizures, neural damage, or altered brain connectivity.
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.
Researchers at University of Gothenburg identified a group of nerve cells controlling semaglutide's appetite-suppressing effects without causing nausea. The discovery may lead to improved treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new CRISPR technology called CRISPR-TO that can transport RNA molecules to specific locations within neurons, enabling repair and regeneration. The technology has shown promising results in increasing neurite growth by up to 50% in mouse brain neurons.
Researchers have gained insights into the brain's locus coeruleus and peri-LC neurons, revealing their role in regulating arousal, attention and response to stress and fear. The study provides a detailed roadmap for studying these key players, potentially opening doors for new treatments for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
Researchers identified a dual learning system in the brain that enables habits to form and provides a scientific basis for breaking bad habits. The study suggests that replacing an action consistently can lead to the APE system forming a new habit, offering a potential strategy for overcoming addictions.
Researchers have identified the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) as the basis of emotional inference in animals and humans. In a study published in Nature, Xiaowei Gu and Joshua Johansen found that rats can learn inferred emotions by associating a neutral stimulus with an unpleasant experience.
Researchers found that hormone fluctuations during the mouse estrous cycle impact the shape and behavior of hippocampal neurons. The study suggests that sex hormones influence cognitive functions like memory and learning.
Researchers at USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences have developed a powerful new method for selectively and reversibly breaking connections between brain cells, targeting specific synapses without harming neurons. The technique, inspired by the brain's own system for recycling proteins, allows for the elimination of eith...
A recent study published in Nature Communications highlights the crucial role of the ubiquitin-selective unfoldase p97/VCP in breaking down aggresomes, which are protein aggregates that can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The research found that blocking this enzyme leads to improper protein folding and aggregation.
A new study reveals how a promising Parkinson's drug works by inhibiting the enzyme USP30, which prevents damaged mitochondria from being degraded. This breakthrough could lead to targeted therapies for Parkinson's disease and chronic kidney disease.
Researchers at Linköping University developed a miniaturized iontronic micropipette to precisely modulate neuronal and astrocytic activity. The study revealed dynamic dynamics between cells, highlighting the importance of chemical signaling in brain function.
Researchers identified the thalamocortical pathway as the key area modified during learning, which physically changes links between brain regions. Learning refines the conversation between the thalamus and cortex at a cellular level, making it faster, stronger, and more precise.
Researchers at Ruhr University Bochum found that energy depletion causes unusual glutamate releases that contribute to nerve cell damage. These abnormal events are self-reinforcing and can be reduced by inhibiting specific receptors.
A novel cannula delivery system allows repeated, nondisruptive delivery of imaging agents to the mouse brain during long-term multiphoton microscopy. This innovation enhances longitudinal studies on brain function, disease progression, and potential treatments.
Scientists investigate whether living neurons can transport light through their axons, which would significantly change current models of the nervous system. If successful, it could have major implications for treating brain diseases and healing the brain.
Researchers found that SIRT2, a previously unknown enzyme, plays a key role in excessive GABA production associated with Alzheimer's disease. This process leads to brain inflammation and memory impairment. By targeting SIRT2, scientists can selectively block its harmful effects on memory without affecting other brain functions.
A study published in Nature Metabolism reveals a novel mechanism connecting prolactin, estrogen, the brain, and metabolic adaptations during lactation. Hormonal changes during lactation lead to increased hunger and reduced fat-burning, which are sustained by a specific area of brain cells called ERα neurons.
Researchers discovered a novel mechanosensing mechanism allowing neurons to adjust their movement strategy when navigating confined spaces. Neurons use PIEZO1 protein channel to detect mechanical stress, triggering a signaling cascade that relocates motor proteins and generates contractile forces.
Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center have discovered a new way that neurons act in neurodegeneration by studying human neural organoids from patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). They found GRAMD1B plays a significant role in managing cholesterol and lipid stores, which are linked to brain diseas...
A small protein involved in neurodegeneration leading to Parkinson's disease also drives a type of skin cancer known as melanoma, according to new research. The study suggests new avenues for drug development to reduce the risk of developing both diseases by targeting alpha-synuclein.
Researchers discovered that C. elegans worms reconfigure brain cells and peptides to cope with infection, enabling them to survive longer. The study reveals unexpected findings on the role of neurons and neuromodulators in adaptive responses.
Researchers discovered a mechanism that harnesses immune cells to produce opioids, potentially alleviating chronic pain. Estrogen and progesterone drive this process, which could lead to more effective treatments for women experiencing pain after menopause.
A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine has made a groundbreaking discovery about the immune system's response to the latent stage of Toxoplasma gondii. The study found that certain T cells can target neurons containing cysts, promoting parasite control. However, this process also poses a...
A study by Philip Kurian and colleagues reveals a revised upper bound on carbon-based life's computational capacity, connecting it to the universe's information-processing limit. The discovery of quantum superradiance in cytoskeletal filaments enables eukaryotic organisms to process information through tryptophan networks.
A study of human-specific genes reveals their crucial role in brain development, providing new insights into the evolutionary origins of the human brain. The research highlights the importance of these genes in determining brain complexity and size.
Researchers discovered that D1 and D2 neurons in the brain work together to process appetitive and aversive stimuli, with D2 neurons playing a key role in extinguishing negative associations. This understanding can help develop new treatments for anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
A team of researchers from Bonn and Tübingen investigated the brain's ability to retain a sequence of events in memory using implanted electrodes. They found that the traditional theory was contradicted by their data, but an alternative mechanism emerged through AI simulations.
Researchers isolated precise location of memory overlap in cells using advanced imaging techniques in mice, showing that memories are stored in dendritic compartments. Linked memories consistently engaged the same groups of neurons and their dendritic branches.
A new study reveals that maternal immune activation can alter hippocampal neuron excitability in newborn rats, with implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. Prenatal inflammation has been linked to conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and depression, and may underlie their increased risk.
A new study by UCLA Health has discovered a drug that fully reproduces the effects of physical stroke rehabilitation in model mice. The drug, DDL-920, excites parvalbumin neurons, leading to significant recovery in movement control after stroke.
Researchers have discovered a novel imaging tool that captures functional activity in mouse models of TMJ injury and inflammation, revealing the simultaneous activity of over 3,000 trigeminal ganglion neurons. This finding suggests that CGRP antagonists could offer a promising solution for TMJ pain relief.
Researchers have discovered a new diterpene-based drug that facilitates the repopulation of mature functional neurons in brain regions damaged by traumatic injuries. The study found that these new cells are integrated into neural circuits and develop functional characteristics similar to those eliminated by the injury.
Scientists have identified a new target to prevent cold sores by understanding how the herpes virus triggers its own immune response. The discovery has important implications for genital herpes caused by the same virus, with potential treatments in development.
A research team at the University of Cologne has identified a specific form of the tau protein, 1N4R, responsible for mediating toxic effects of protein clumps in human brain cells. This breakthrough understanding could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have discovered column-like structures in the visual cortex of mice, where neurons processing stimuli from the same eye form clusters. This finding sheds light on the structural organization of the brain and may help solve the mystery of cortical columns' function.
New research found that neuroestrogens produced in the brain help suppress appetite, as confirmed by experiments where aromatase expression was restored specifically in the brain. This suggests a link between neuroestrogen levels and body weight regulation.
Researchers at Sainsbury Wellcome Centre develop novel experimental setup called Translocator, isolating fundamental elements of locomotion and motion-source separation. The team finds that individual cells in primary visual cortex use motor and vestibular signals to determine visual flow origin.
A new study identifies two groups of brain cells that help the mouse brain gauge the full range of possible rewards associated with a choice. The researchers used machine-learning concepts to study brain circuitry supporting reward-based decisions in mice, shedding light on how the human brain makes such choices.
Male fruit flies use high-frequency wing flicks to jam rival songs, while also performing courtship behaviors to win over females. The study reveals that mating decisions in flies are influenced by interactions between males, challenging previous assumptions about female preference.
A University of Ottawa neuroscientist has led a Canadian research team to discover how neural stem cells integrate signals from different cell types and decode them. The study found that low daughter cell numbers trigger activation, while high numbers keep them in quiescence, offering new insights into cellular relationships and potent...
Columbia scientists identified specialized neurons in the brains of mice that monitor food intake and decide when to stop eating. These neurons are located in the brainstem, process complex signals, and integrate information from multiple sources to determine fullness, leading to new potential treatments for obesity.
Scientists from DZNE found that preventing brain inflammation may help treat Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in Immunity, suggests that inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome can reduce neuroinflammation and help microglia clear harmful amyloid-beta deposits.
Researchers create 3D-printed model to understand how neurons form networks and mature in neurological disorders. The nanostructured arrays guide neural network growth and directionality, influencing neuronal maturation.
A study on fruit fly larvae revealed the presence of neurons with mechanoreceptors in their peripheral taste organs, allowing them to sense food texture. This discovery sheds light on the complex process of tasting texture and highlights the importance of multisensory contributions in food perception.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel high-performance organic electrochemical neuron that responds within the frequency range of human neurons. The device was integrated with artificial touch receptors and synapses to create a complete perception system, enabling real-time tactile signal sensing and processing.
Tobias Ackels' research reveals that mammals can differentiate between odor sources at lightning speed, using a temporal dimension to orient themselves in space. This ability is encoded in the output of the olfactory bulb and could be used for early detection of dementia.
Elizabeth Hillman, a pioneer in imaging method development, is leading the new Department of Imaging Sciences at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The department aims to develop innovative new imaging and measurement approaches that will enable groundbreaking scientific studies and improve patient care.
Researchers have created a detailed structural map of GABA A receptors in the human brain, revealing how they assemble and interact with drugs. The study provides new insights into treating epilepsy, anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and paves the way for customized therapies.
A brain-computer interface has enabled a person with tetraplegia to control a virtual quadcopter by thinking about moving their unresponsive fingers. This technology provides unprecedented control, allowing the user to maneuver through a virtual obstacle course and potentially enabling remote work and social interactions.
Researchers introduced a novel approach to enhance reservoir computing, incorporating a generalized readout that offers improved accuracy and robustness compared to conventional methods. The new method uses a nonlinear combination of reservoir variables to uncover deeper patterns in input data.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have developed a new training technique for highly efficient AI methods, inspired by biological neurons that use short voltage pulses to communicate. This approach enables spiking neural networks to be trained using conventional methods, resulting in improved accuracy and reduced energy consumption.