Articles tagged with Neurons
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.
A study published in JCI Journals found that circadian clock proteins regulate neuronal redox homeostasis and prevent neurodegeneration. BMAL1-deficient mice showed accumulated astrocytes, neuronal degeneration, and reduced blood flow, highlighting the importance of core clock proteins in maintaining healthy neurons.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have identified Engrailed 1 as a protein overexpressed in basal-like carcinomas, which can lead to chemotherapy resistance. A synthetic peptide designed by Adriana Beltran and colleagues can disrupt Engrailed 1's function, causing rapid cell death.
Researchers at Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory have achieved high coherence in nitrogen-vacancy centers of nanodiamonds, enabling the creation of ultra-precise nanoscale magnetic field and temperature detectors. This breakthrough could enhance our understanding of chemical reactions within single cells and signalling in neural networks.
Researchers from Bonn University discovered that immature nerve cells secrete chemical attractants that prevent mature brain cells from migrating into the brain. Inactivating these attractants improves nerve cell migration in animal models, offering a promising universal approach to treat Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases.
A study investigated the optimal site for cell transplantation to treat spinal cord injury, using laboratory mice with contusive spinal cord injuries. The researchers found that intralesional injection of neural stem/progenitor cells led to motor functional recovery and improved survival rates compared to other sites.
A Yale-led team identified common neural circuits affected by autism-risk genes and when they exert their effects on the developing human brain. The findings suggest new targeted treatments for autism may be possible, focusing on specific neural circuits at specific times.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that obese mice have fewer taste cells capable of detecting sweetness and react weakly to sweet stimuli. This impairment may contribute to overeating and weight gain by reducing the effectiveness of the body's natural appetite suppressants.
Researchers used genetic engineering to precisely study a key protein's role in familial Alzheimer's disease, discovering that simple loss-of-function doesn't contribute to the inherited form. The findings could help elucidate Alzheimer's mechanisms and inform drug development.
Researchers found significant loss of neurons in the retina's inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers, suggesting Alzheimer's disease presence. The study suggests a potential new way to diagnose or predict Alzheimer's through eye examination, using optical coherence tomography.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a new single-cell genome sequencing technique that confines genome amplification to fluid-filled wells with a volume of just 12 nanoliters. This approach enables the generation of more complete genome sequences from single cells, including E. coli and individual neurons from the human brain.
Research suggests hyper-connected neurons may cause social symptoms in autistic children, leading to potential new treatment strategies and early detection methods. The study found a link between brain connectivity and severity of social impairment in individuals with autism.
A traditional Chinese medicine, Buyang Huanwu Decoction, has been shown to improve neurological function in patients with stroke. The decoction increases the number of cells positive for markers of neuronal differentiation and synaptic plasticity in ischemic rat cerebral regions.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a critical gene that guides the separation of two types of motion-sensing cells in the retina, shedding light on cellular layering and its implications for brain function.
Researchers have found that oligomeric proanthocyanidin has a protective effect on retinal ganglion cells against oxidative stress-induced injury, providing potential treatment for neural diseases. The compound, enriched in grape seeds, shows promise in preventing cell death in optic neurodegenerative conditions.
A new study reveals that presenilin works with enzyme GSK-3ß to control material transport through neurons. Low levels of presenilin or high levels of GSK-3ß can cause uncoordinated movement, resulting in dangerous blockages. Researchers propose a potential pathway for early intervention through drugs.
A study at Washington University in St. Louis found that a small molecule called VIP can temporarily desynchronize brain cells, but also enables them to re-synchronize more quickly to abrupt shifts in daily light-dark schedules. This effect may be useful for travelers and shift workers who struggle with jet lag.
Researchers found that rhesus macaque monkeys have specialized nerve cells in their brains that respond to images of snakes. This suggests that primates may have evolved to detect and avoid snakes due to the presence of venomous snakes during their ancestors' time.
SMEK1 promotes neural stem cell differentiation and suppresses uncontrolled proliferation, while collaborating with Protein Phosphatase 4 to regulate PAR3 activity. This discovery offers new hope for patients with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Scientists created induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from chimpanzee and bonobo skin cells to compare with human iPSCs. They found differences in the regulation of jumping genes, which may have shaped the evolution of their genomes.
Researchers at Clemson University found that increasing mTOR pathway activity in neural stem cells leads to neuron generation and may offer a new treatment for neurodevelopmental disorders. The study, published in Cell Reports, points to the potential benefits of targeting 4E-BP2, a specific mTOR target.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered how fruit fly neurons integrate multiple signals to identify one unique smell. The brain uses a group of neurons called Kenyon cells, which have long protrusions that grasp projection neurons with a claw-like structure.
Bioengineers at the University of California, Berkeley, have shown that physical cues can replace certain chemicals when nudging mature cells back to a pluripotent stage. The researchers found a four-fold increase in the number of cells that reverted back to an embryonic-like state compared with cells grown on a flat surface.
Researchers have discovered how an ALS mutation kills neurons and developed a therapeutic strategy to block this neurodegeneration. They used human skin cells from patients and converted them into neurons, finding that the abnormal genetic expansion causes cell death, dysregulated gene expression, and RNA toxicity.
Researchers measured levels of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid to predict cognitive impairment, identifying biomarkers that signal potential development of Alzheimer's disease up to five years before symptom onset. The study offers a potential tool for guiding earlier use of treatments and testing new drugs.
Researchers have developed a new therapy that targets the C9ORF72 gene mutation causing dementia and ALS. The stem cell-based approach manipulates brain cells in test tube studies, discovering compounds that counteract the genetic glitch.
Researchers at Salk Institute create technique to activate proteins in brain using light, allowing precise control over neuronal activity and enabling study of specific proteins. The method expands genetic code of mammals and opens possibilities for optically regulating protein modifications and interactions.
Scientists at the University of Washington have identified a population of neurons in the brain that tell the brain to shut off appetite. In mouse trials, activation of these neurons led to immediate loss of appetite and reduced food intake.
Scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that specific cells in the fruit fly brain respond to food odors, predicting how much flies like a given odor. By manipulating these neurons, researchers can influence fly behavior, shedding light on human obesity and food choice.
Researchers found that transplanted stem cells guide neural stem cells to the injured brain site via a neurovascular matrix, promoting functional recovery. The study presents evidence for a new concept of stem-cell mediated brain repair, offering a potential treatment for traumatic brain injury.
Researchers at RIKEN Brain Science Institute found that autophagy mediates the formation of amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that autophagy might be a potential drug target for treating the disease.
Scientists have redefined the MECP2 protein's role in Rett syndrome, discovering it acts as a global activator rather than repressor. This new understanding can lead to novel therapies for the disease, targeting the AKT/mTOR pathway to reverse symptoms.
Scientists discovered a function of sNPF, a neuropeptide, in regulating both sleep and food intake in Drosophila. Activating sNPF led to rapid sleep induction, with flies sleeping on food sources for days. This study provides insight into the interaction between sleep and metabolism.
Researchers are developing a drug to prevent inflammation around implanted electrodes, which causes brain cells to degenerate and compromise the blood-brain barrier. Testing is underway to determine if administering the drug can improve outcomes and extend the lifespan of brain implants.
Researchers have successfully grown large numbers of patient-specific brain cells in the lab using small biopsies, which express natural protective agents. These cells may be used to treat a range of neurological conditions and could potentially cross the blood-brain barrier to deliver targeted therapies.
Researchers discovered a mechanism by which damaged mitochondria signal their own destruction, allowing cells to thrive. The 'eat me' signal involves cardiolipins and a protein called LC3, opening doors to potential research into cures for Parkinson's disease.
A team of neuroscientists has identified a specific area in the visual cortex called V4 that is involved in creating illusory contours. The brain's neural activity in this region correlates with the perception of these illusions, which are thought to be an evolutionary adaptation for detecting predators or prey.
A new study by Yale researchers found that the body's energy-producing mitochondria play a crucial role in regulating appetite and obesity risk. Dynamic changes in mitochondria can either spur or stop obesity, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial plasticity in maintaining healthy energy levels.
Researchers used iPSCs from nonhuman primates to develop neural cells depleted by Parkinson's disease, eliciting only a minimal immune response. This breakthrough suggests autologous transplantation could be a viable option for humans, offering promise as a treatment for the disease.
Research led by Robert Gros and Marco Prado found that heart cells release the neurotransmitter acetylcholine to regulate heart activity, in addition to nervous systems. The findings suggest that this non-neuronal system may play a crucial role in counterbalancing sympathetic activity and boosting parasympathetic signaling.
Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have uncovered a new mechanism by which influenza viruses infect cells, utilizing the protein neuraminidase instead of hemagglutinin. This discovery may have implications for developing immunity against the flu and could lead to new treatments.
Researchers from China Medical University discovered that overexpressing the cytoglobin gene in SH-SY5Y cells enhances their resistance to cobalt chloride-induced hypoxia. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for developing gene therapy treatments for hypoxic-ischemic neurological diseases.
Researchers are investigating the links between maternal nutrition, BPA exposure, and offspring obesity. Studies aim to understand how neural development in the womb can lead to overeating and obesity later in life.
The study highlights the importance of autophagic and lysosomal activity in ischemic neurons, providing nutrition and energy for their survival. Upregulating cell autophagy or inhibiting autophagy may help eliminate abnormal components in cells after ischemic brain injury.
Liping Chen's study found that Shuyusan-containing serum increased survival rates of SH-SY5Y cells, reduced Bax expression, and elevated brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA expression. The effect was more pronounced at high doses.
Researchers at Yale University have identified a protein that serves as the missing link in the chain of events leading to Alzheimer's disease. Blocking this protein with an existing drug has been shown to restore memory and synaptic density in mouse models of the disease. The findings offer strong hope for developing new treatments.
Researchers discovered a population of neurons in juvenile songbirds that enable the birds to recognize and learn vocal sounds. This finding could provide valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying human infant language acquisition.
A study published in Cell identifies a subset of proteins in the brain that persist for longer than a year, potentially revealing the molecular basis of aging. These long-lived proteins are thought to be the 'weakest link' in the aging proteome and may play a role in cellular aging.
A University of Michigan study found two critical components involved in the brain's cell clearing process: TRPML1 calcium channel protein and an alipid molecule. The researchers also identified a synthetic chemical compound that can activate TRPML1, potentially providing a drug target for combating neurological diseases.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF uncovered a molecular process causing neurons to degenerate, a hallmark of conditions like Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia. The study used human stem cells with genetic mutations, allowing for the comparison of diseased and healthy neurons.
Researchers find that protein phosphorylation slows down Parkinson's disease, contradicting the assumption that it triggers toxic aggregates. The study suggests a new approach for therapeutic development.
Researchers identified critical inhibitory neurons responsible for vision development in children. A new treatment approach uses an experimental drug compound to reopen the critical-period window and correct central vision disorders.
Researchers found that immune cells called monocytes are recruited to the brain in response to stress and promote anxiety-like behavior. Monocytes travel to specific regions of the brain, generating inflammation that causes anxiety.
A new gene therapy study, published in the Journal of Neuroscience, shows reversal of Rett symptoms in fully symptomatic mice by delivering a healthy MECP2 gene to cells throughout the body and brain. The treatment improved motor function, tremors, seizures, and hand clasping in 65% of cells.
A recent study published in Neural Regeneration Research identified cell cycle-related genes as crucial factors in the development of neural tube defects. The research found that retinoic acid treatment differentially expressed three cell cycle-related genes: p57kip2, Cdk5, and Spin.
A study found that the loss of CHD5 gene in stem cells underlies severe forms of neuroblastoma, a potentially curable tumor. CHD5 is required for cellular transition from a stem cell to a mature neuron, and its reactivation may increase responsiveness to treatment.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that CHD5 is essential for stem cells to mature into neurons. In the absence of CHD5, stem cells are unable to silence certain genes and switch on those necessary for neuronal maturation. The study suggests restoring CHD5 in aggressive tumor cells could make them more treatable.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered that neural stem cells can resist radiation and regenerate after damage, potentially restoring lost function in brain cancer patients and individuals with conditions like MS and PD. The findings may lead to new treatments for brain trauma and strokes.
A protein involved in nerve-cell migration is implicated in the spread of brain cancer, according to new research from the University of Illinois at Chicago. The study found that cadherin11 promotes cancer cell migration and invasion by regulating cell adhesion and movement.
A recent study has identified a third brain region, the orbital frontal cortex (OFC), critical for shifting between habitual and goal-directed actions. This discovery has important implications for understanding neuropsychiatric disorders where habit balance is disrupted.
Neuropathic pain is a daily reality for millions of Americans, but researchers have found a way to protect GABA neurons from oxidative stress, which may help alleviate the condition. By using an antioxidant compound, scientists were able to lower pain behavior and preserve GABA neuron populations.