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.
Scientists imaged individual neurons in zebrafish optic tectum, finding that strong activation leads to chasing motion, while weak activation results in no action. Inhibitory neurons play a key role in filtering out irrelevant signals.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified a novel regulatory mechanism controlling protein TCF3, essential for embryonic development and potentially leading to cancer diagnosis and therapy. This discovery may enable early detection of cancers and develop drugs targeting the modified TCF3.
A study funded by NIH shows that participants can force a computer to display one image and discard another using only their thoughts. The research used brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to understand how the brain processes information, particularly attention and decision-making.
MIT neuroscientists identify a 'chain reaction' of brain activity that controls the timing of song in birds, with individual neurons firing at precise intervals to produce a stereotypical song. The study's findings support the 'synfire chain' model, where each neuron triggers the next, like falling dominos.
Research led by Dr. Fu-Dong Shi at Barrow Neurological Institute revealed that natural killer cells play a critical role in controlling CNS inflammation and immune response. Enriching affected areas with NK cells improved disease symptoms, while blocking them worsened outcomes.
Scientists have identified a novel signal that can control the behavior of stem cells, which holds promise for treating cancer and birth defects. The research, published in Disease Models & Mechanisms, uses bioelectrical therapy to guide stem cells along the correct pathways.
Biologists at Tufts University have discovered that changes in membrane voltage in newly identified 'instructor cells' can cause stem cells' descendants to trigger melanoma-like growth in pigment cells. The researchers found that this metastatic transformation is due to changes in serotonin transport.
Researchers found that activation of D1 and D2 neurons in the nucleus accumbens region of the brain exert opposite effects on cocaine reward. Activation of D1 neurons increases cocaine reward, while activation of D2 neurons decreases it. This imbalance may lead to chronic exposure to cocaine resulting in decreased activity in D2 neurons.
A UCLA study found that exposing fetal neurons to high levels of the immune protein MHC leads to abnormal brain development in mice. This discovery may provide new insights into factors contributing to human neurological disorders like schizophrenia and autism.
Researchers found that certain neurons represent accumulation of evidence to a threshold and others represent evidence itself, driving decision-making. The study offers potential insights into psychological disorders, such as ADHD, where impairments in decision-making occur.
Researchers at Temple University discovered that STIM1 protein inhibits voltage-operated calcium channels in non-excitable cells, providing a common mechanism for calcium signaling in both types of cells. This finding reveals a crucial role of STIM1 in sensing low calcium levels and activating Orai channels.
Researchers have developed a novel strategy for creating patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that exhibits significant advantages over current methods. The new approach uses synthetic modified messenger RNA molecules to reprogram adult cells into iPSCs with high efficiency and safety.
A new study by MIT neuroscientists suggests that the brain learns to solve object recognition through experience in the natural world. Researchers exposed monkeys to altered visual stimuli, which led to changes in neural activity and object preferences.
Researchers led by Dr. Akihiro Yamanaka discovered that orexin-releasing neurons have a self-excitation mechanism that activates each other, maintaining high-level activity and wakefulness. This finding overturns an existing theory and suggests that this mechanism may be involved in insomnia.
A study found that excess alpha-synuclein blocks the formation of autophagosome precursors and omegasomes, leading to impaired autophagy in neurons. This can result in the gradual accumulation of toxic proteins and dysfunctional mitochondria, sensitizing neurons to cell death.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have identified a novel molecular pathway underlying Parkinson's disease, which involves polyamines and toxic proteins in neurons. The study suggests that polyamine-lowering drugs may be able to slow the disease's progression and potentially lead to early detection tests.
Researchers discovered an indirect approach to reducing JAK2 activity by targeting HSP90, which stabilized JAK2. This treatment normalized blood counts and improved survival in mouse models of myeloproliferative neoplasms. Inhibiting c-Met also decreased mTOR signaling and blocked cyst formation in a mouse model of autosomal dominant p...
Researchers found that NGP 555 selectively targets gamma secretase, reducing Aβ42 and amyloid pathology in a transgenic mouse model. Chronic administration led to significant reduction in diffuse and neuritic plaques without GI side effects.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified two proteins, Piezo1 and Piezo2, that play a crucial role in mechanotransduction - the conversion of mechanical force into chemical signals. This discovery could lead to new treatment approaches for pain, deafness, and cardiac function.
A team of researchers at the University of Oregon has made a groundbreaking discovery about stem cell division, finding that cortical proteins help position a cleavage furrow in the right location. This new mechanism has important implications for understanding how stem cells divide to produce unique cell types.
A team of University of Oregon scientists has found that when a sound is loud enough, auditory neurons simply accept it and ignore subsequent reverberations. This simplifies the filtering process, suggesting that a sophisticated system to suppress echoes may not be necessary.
Researchers at EMBL identified specific type of neurons involved in mouse fear response, revealing complex brain circuitry. They used fMRI and genetic approaches to control neurons' activity, showing that fear can trigger active coping strategies instead of freezing.
Researchers found that exercising obese rodents showed restored signals of satiety in hypothalamic neurons, leading to decreased food intake. The study's findings suggest a new paradigm for physical activity and weight loss, reinforcing the importance of regular exercise.
Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cells stabilized the brain cell environment and aided astrocyte survival after oxygen deprivation. However, the cells also had an impact on cytokine expression, sometimes suppressing inflammation and other times enhancing it.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed nanowire-based V-shaped transistors that can be inserted into cells without damaging them. These devices allow for the measurement of ion flux or electrical signals within cells, and can even be fitted with receptors to probe for specific biochemicals.
A study by Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience found that people's brains respond differently to others' actions based on their perceived intentions. When generous behavior is framed as benefiting the group, participants showed a stronger neural response, indicating a greater liking for the action.
New research reveals that abnormal huntingtin protein plays a crucial role in neurogenesis, challenging previous understanding of its function in adult neurons. The study demonstrates htt's involvement in cell division and neurogenesis, shedding light on the pathogenic mechanisms underlying Huntington's disease.
A study by Yale researchers found that a high-fat diet influences the brain's development, making some individuals more prone to obesity and others resistant. The study suggests that genetic and environmental factors, particularly maternal impact on the developing brain, play a critical role in determining vulnerability to obesity.
Scientists have discovered that neuroglobin protects cells from stroke damage, amyloid toxicity, and lack of oxygen. High levels of neuroglobin in brain neurons may buffer them against the effects of Alzheimer's disease-causing protein accumulation.
Electrical activity in developing brain cells influences the choice of neurotransmitter, altering behavior. Researchers found that tweaking genetic signals can change an animal's behavior by changing the transmitters neurons make and use.
A study reveals that an enzyme involved in multiple disorders also generates toxic protein fragments in Huntington's disease, causing neuron death. Researchers propose inhibiting MMP family members as a potential therapeutic strategy.
The novel peptide LifeAct allows for the visualization of actin in living cells, facilitating research into various diseases. This breakthrough technology has the potential to improve our understanding of actin's role in fundamental processes and its involvement in diseases such as polycystic kidney disease and invasive tumors.
Dr. Anthony-Samuel LaMantia's research identifies stem cells responsible for generating nerve cells involved in eating, reproduction, and social behavior. These cells are essential for understanding neurological and mental disabilities, such as autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have developed a functional implantable artificial salivary gland to treat xerostomia in cancer patients. The new treatment uses modified hydrogels to regenerate functional salivary acinar cells, restoring saliva production and improving oral health.
A team of investigators has identified a series of proteins that may make it easier to diagnose the more metastatic forms of prostate cancer. The study uncovers a protein named Siah2, which initiates a cascade of molecular events that turns a non-malignant tumor into a metastatic neuroendocrine tumor.
A new study suggests that a protein called SIRT1, found in specific neurons of the brain, is essential for maintaining normal body weight. Without this protein, mice on high-calorie diets gain more weight and are more susceptible to obesity.
Researchers have identified Pax6 as a critical genetic factor in human brain development, governing the differentiation of stem cells into various brain cell types. This discovery may lead to the creation of customized brain cells for therapeutic purposes.
Princeton University researchers are developing a new method for studying brain connectivity using genetically engineered viruses. The viruses, designed by Lynn Enquist's team, travel through the nervous system, tracing connections between neurons and reporting on their activity. This approach has significant implications for understan...
Researchers have made significant discoveries in the fields of atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease, revealing new insights into the role of neutrophils and hyperploidy. A study found that neutrophils contribute to atherosclerosis, while another discovered that hyperploid neurons are more prone to cell death in Alzheimer's disease.
The 2009 Journal Citation Reports reveals a surge in Impact Factors for Cell Press journals, with Cell Stem Cell and Cell Host and Microbe leading the charge. Cancer Cell also continues to grow, while Molecular Cell sees an impressive 13% increase, demonstrating the growing importance of these publications in the scientific community.
The collaboration aims to identify genes and novel drug targets related to the onset and progression of Huntington's disease. The team will use induced pluripotent stem cells from patients with HD to screen for drugs that might delay, prevent, or reverse the devastating condition.
Researchers at University College London have identified a new mechanism for how polycomb proteins repress the wrong genes in embryonic stem cells. The discovery has significant implications for tissue engineering and cell differentiation, as it reveals how polycomb proteins control gene activity through interaction with short RNAs.
Movshon and Stanford's William T. Newsome receive award for their decades-long research on how the brain reconstructs images to support perception, linking perception to specific neural activity
A new study by MIT researchers has identified two distinct brain circuits involved in habitual learning. The dorsolateral and dorsomedial striatal circuits show different patterns of activity as rats learn to navigate a maze, with the dorsolateral circuit becoming more active with repetition and the dorsomedial circuit playing a key ro...
Researchers found that certain 'multitasking' neurons in monkeys' brains are best at making correct identifications in both car and animal categories. This ability to 'multitask' allows the brain to re-utilize neurons for different tasks, potentially leading to a better understanding of disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
A mutation in the TRPA1 gene has been identified as the cause of familial episodic pain syndrome (FEPS), a rare inherited pain disorder. The research proposes potential treatment options using pharmacological compounds that inhibit the mutant channel.
A team of researchers has developed a more consistent method for isolating pancreatic islet cells from brain-dead donors using ductal injection, resulting in three type 1-diabetes patients becoming insulin-independent. The study's success rate surpasses the standard 50% with an impressive 80% clinical islet transplantation rate.
Researchers found neural tissue has imbalanced levels of proteins, specifically torsinA and torsinB, which may explain why certain diseases affect specific organs. This discovery could lead to a better understanding of how genetic mutations impact different cell types.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a natural self-repair mechanism that kick-starts after spinal-cord injuries, offering promising new treatments. Serotonin receptors remain active after injury, but are permanently turned on, contributing to muscle spasms; blocking these receptors could help alleviate symptoms.
Researchers found that CDP-choline can reduce cell death and ceramide levels, preventing damage when exposure to alcohol is stopped. The study suggests a potential preventive measure for fetal alcohol syndrome.
Researchers discover mutant strain of gum disease-causing bacteria that can activate autophagy, a cellular process that breaks down waste products and plaques associated with neurodegenerative diseases. This finding could lead to novel therapeutics for treating Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other diseases.
Researchers from the University of the Basque Country have identified a new mechanism for amyloid peptide-induced neuronal death. By blocking specific receptors, neurons can be protected from lethal effects, paving the way for novel therapies to slow Alzheimer's progression.
Researchers at MIT and Hebrew University identified specific classes of neurons in songbirds that match those in mammalian basal ganglia. The study suggests that the same brain circuits underlie learning in both species, with implications for human biology and disorders like Parkinson's disease.
A Stanford-led team has solved the mystery of how functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) signals are produced, confirming earlier assumptions about their relationship to neural excitation. The breakthrough enables researchers to study brain-wide impact of changes in neural circuitry using blood-flow fMRI combined with optogenetics.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered a direct link between neural activity in an insect's brain and changes in behavior. The findings suggest that cockroaches can control their speed with their brains, which could inspire the development of more adaptive robots for search and rescue and space exploration.
Researchers at U of T discovered a new view on how living cells use DNA to generate genetic messages, resolving a decade-old gap in understanding. The 'splicing code' helps predict and prevent diseases such as cancers and neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers found differences in brain patterning as early as 48 hours after fertilization, before neurogenesis begins. They successfully altered the brain of a rock-dwelling fish embryo to resemble a sand-dwelling fish embryo using chemical manipulation.
Researchers found that the brain's frontal cortex plays a key role in processing abstract knowledge, enabling individuals to adapt behaviors based on past learning. The study used fMRI to investigate how the brain achieves flexibility in solving unfamiliar problems.
A team of researchers at the University of Illinois has identified a promising new drug target for Alzheimer's disease: the beta-2 adrenergic receptor. The receptor is activated by amyloid-beta, leading to increased activity in affected neurons and eventual cell death.
New research identifies a brain circuit that enables humans to make choices with high long-term benefits by delaying reward. The study found that vividly imagining the future reduces impulsive choice behavior, suggesting the anterior cingulate cortex plays a key role in dynamic adjustment of preference functions.