Tumor mechanism identified
A key mechanism that makes certain brain cells become tumorous has been identified by researchers. The tumours occur most often spontaneously but can also be part of inherited disease Neurofibromatosis type 2.
Neurons
Articles tagged with Neurons
CSHL neuroscientist discovers protein that regulates forgetting of short-term memories
Researchers at CSHL have identified a protein called Rac as the regulator of forgetting in short-term memories. Elevated Rac activity accelerates memory decay, while inhibition slows it down.
Stanford researchers explore link between human birth defect syndrome, cancer metastasis
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have found a protein controlling DNA accessibility responsible for the cells' developmental flexibility, offering insights into CHARGE syndrome and cancer metastasis. The study suggests that increased CHD7 levels may enhance metastasis in certain cancers.
Double agent: Glial cells can protect or kill neurons, vision
A new study found that glial cells can switch from protecting neurons to killing them when triggered by proNGF. The process can lead to vision loss and blindness. Researchers hope to find ways to block proNGF's effects to prevent this damage.
Seeing the brain hear reveals surprises about how sound is processed
Neurobiologists at the University of Maryland discovered that the brain's auditory cortex is more complex and chaotic than previously thought, with neighboring neurons creating different outputs. This disorder could indicate that the brain is far more adaptable than previously thought.
Uncorrelated activity in the brain
Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that adjacent neurons in the brain do not synchronize their action potentials, contrary to previous beliefs. This finding provides insight into how the brain processes information efficiently by introducing a 'decorrelated state' that allows for uncorrelated activity.
New class of brain-protecting drugs emerging
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have identified a novel compound, 7,8-dihydroxyflavone, that mimics the brain's growth factor and protects against neurological disease damage. The flavonoid compound shows potential as a new class of brain-protecting drugs with low chronic toxicity.
New findings may shed light on brain and spinal cord birth defects
A study published in Developmental Cell has identified protease-activated receptors as crucial for neural tube closure, a process disrupted in congenital birth defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida. The research suggests that this PAR signaling system may regulate the integrity of tissue to prevent neural tube defects.
Surplus of serotonin receptors may explain failure of antidepressants in some patients
A study from Columbia University Medical Center found that an excess of one type of serotonin receptor in the brain's center may cause antidepressants to fail for half of patients. Researchers created a mouse model with high and low receptor levels, showing that reducing receptors can transform non-responders into responders.
MIT research finds 'noisiest' neurons persist in the adult brain
Researchers at MIT have found that cells with higher activity levels are more likely to survive and integrate into the adult brain. This discovery is significant for cell replacement therapies used to treat neurological diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Researchers identify protein needed to develop auditory neurons
The discovery of Sox2, a protein that regulates stem cell formation, is crucial for spiral ganglion neuron development. The study's findings may lead to the regeneration of these nerve cells, potentially revolutionizing cochlear implant technology and biological treatments for hearing loss.
Study investigates immune system alterations in the brain
Researchers used a special peptide to modify laboratory mice's immune systems, reducing characteristic features of Alzheimer's disease. Anti-inflammatory cells were recruited, dampening the local inflammatory response and boosting plaque-degrading enzyme action.
MIT neuroengineers silence brain cells with multiple colors of light
Neuroscientists at MIT have developed a powerful new class of tools that can reversibly shut down brain activity using different colors of light. These 'super silencers' exert exquisite control over the timing of shutdown, allowing researchers to study neural circuits and potentially treat disorders such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and ...
Small molecules found to protect cells in multiple models of Parkinson's disease
Researchers discovered four small molecules capable of protecting cells from alpha-synuclein toxicity, a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. The compounds improved protein trafficking and decreased mitochondrial damage in multiple models, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for the disease.
Subtle change dramatically reduces pathogenic potential of Huntington's protein
Researchers identified a key molecular switch that drives the onset of Huntington's disease, an incurable neurodegenerative disorder. A subtle change in two amino acids reduced the pathogenic potential of the mutant protein, potentially leading to new treatment strategies.
Synergistic interaction enhances pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease
Researchers found that a synergistic interaction between ?-syn and LRRK2 exacerbates neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease by disrupting intracellular transport mechanisms. Inhibition of LRRK2 expression may provide a therapeutic strategy to prevent PD-associated neuropathology.
Growing evidence suggests progesterone should be considered a treatment option for traumatic brain injuries
Researchers suggest progesterone as a viable treatment option for traumatic brain injuries due to its ability to protect damaged cells and reduce swelling. The hormone has been shown to improve behavioral outcomes and protect neurons after injury.
Exposure to young triggers new neuron creation in females exhibiting maternal behavior
Researchers at Tufts University discovered that maternal behavior can stimulate new neuron creation in the brains of adult female rats who have never given birth. The study found increased numbers of new neurons in the subventricular region of the brain in these rats, which exhibited maternal behavior when exposed to foster pups.
New biosensors reveal workings of anti-psychotic drugs in the living brain
Researchers used biosensors to study how anti-psychotic drugs, such as atypical neuroleptics, affect the brain. The study found that these drugs block a particular type of receptor, overriding the increase in acetylcholine they stimulate.
How to read brain activity?
Researchers have found that specific waves in EEG signals can reliably predict neural activity in the brain. By combining EEG and direct neuron recordings, scientists identified a link between 'frequency band coupling' and cell firing rates.
How to read brain activity?
Scientists at Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics develop new method to interpret EEG signals, providing insights into neural activity. By combining EEG and neuron recordings, researchers can accurately predict brain cell activity, shedding light on abnormal EEG waveforms in neurological disorders.
Ecstasy use may lead to sleep apnea
A recent study by Johns Hopkins scientists suggests that repeated ecstasy use significantly raises the risk of developing sleep apnea in otherwise healthy young adults. The researchers found that the more participants had used MDMA in the past, the more severe their apnea was likely to be.
Pleasant dietary habits are necessary for health
Research by Professor Yasuhiko Minokoshi and Dr. Tetsuya Shiuchi found that meals with sweet taste stimulation activate 'orexin' neurons, reducing blood glucose levels in mice. Pleasant eating habits may prevent hyperglycemia by activating orexin neurons.
Naked mole rats may hold clues to surviving stroke
Researchers found that naked mole rat brain tissue can survive for over half an hour without oxygen, which could lead to new treatment options for brain injuries caused by heart attacks, strokes, and accidents. This adaptation may also provide insights into how to prevent permanent human brain damage after temporary loss of oxygen.
Auditory illusion: How our brains can fill in the gaps to create continuous sound
A new study reveals how our brains fill in gaps to create continuous sound by suppressing slow brain waves during interruptions. This mechanism enhances our understanding of human hearing and may inspire future devices for people with hearing deficits.
Scripps research scientists find new link between insulin and core body temperature
Scientists have discovered a direct link between insulin and core body temperature, finding that insulin injection in specific brain areas increases metabolism, brown adipose tissue activity, and core temperature. The study suggests a potential therapeutic area for future drug design and new insights into obesity and diabetes.
The protein Srebp2 drives cholesterol formation in prion-infected neuronal cells
Researchers discovered that Srebp2 regulates cholesterol biosynthesis in prion-infected neuronal cells, leading to increased cholesterol levels and potential disease promotion. This finding may lead to new therapy approaches for prion-dependent diseases.
On your last nerve: NC State researchers advance understanding of stem cells
Researchers from NC State University have identified a gene called FoxJ1 that tells embryonic stem cells in the brain when to stop producing nerve cells. This discovery advances understanding of the nervous system and its development, with potential applications for conditions like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's.
Duke researchers find explanation for rapid maturation of neurons at birth
Researchers found a dual-brake mechanism controlling chloride transport, which calms hyperactive fetal neurons after birth. This process may benefit people with epilepsy and neuropathic pain by re-establishing natural inhibition.
Mobile microscopes illuminate the brain
Scientists at Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics create tiny laser-scanning microscope images brain cells in awake and moving animals, eliminating the need for electrodes. This breakthrough allows researchers to study how the brain generates an internal representation of the outside world.
Preventative brain radiation for lung cancer patients: Benefits and risks
A new study found that preventative brain radiation therapy for lung cancer patients reduces the risk of developing brain metastases by 10%, but negatively affects short-term and long-term memory. Despite this, the treatment has no significant impact on survival or quality of life.
Real benefits vs. risks of preventative brain radiation for nonsmall cell lung cancer patients
A randomized study found that preventative brain radiation for nonsmall cell lung cancer patients decreased the risk of brain metastases by over 50%, but increased short and long-term memory loss. The study also showed no significant difference in overall survival between treated and untreated patients.
Statins show dramatic drug and cell dependent effects in the brain
A recent study found that statins can have profoundly different effects on brain cells, including benefits in reducing cholesterol transporter expression but potential risks in increasing Alzheimer's disease-related proteins. The findings highlight the importance of personalized treatment approaches for individuals taking statin therapy.
MIT neuroscientists find neural stopwatch in the brain
Researchers identified populations of neurons coding time with extreme precision in the primate brain's prefrontal cortex and striatum. This fine-scale coverage enables precise timing of actions, such as speaking or driving a car.
Researchers reveal mechanism for neuron self-preservation
A study published in the Journal of Cell Biology reveals that PIKfyve, a lipid kinase, protects neurons from calcium overload by degrading voltage-gated calcium channels. This mechanism may provide new insights into neurodegenerative disorders such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
Fate Therapeutics announces creation of small molecule platform for commercial-scale reprogramming
The company has developed a 2-week method for generating human induced-pluripotent stem cells with a 200-fold increase in yield. This breakthrough has broad implications for pharmaceutical-grade iPSCs production without genetic modification at commercial scale.
Scientists give flies false memories
Researchers used optogenetics to stimulate 12 cells in fly brains, creating false memories of an unpleasant event. This discovery provides new insights into how simple organisms can form complex cognitive associations.
Scientists reveal new pattern in our daily clock
Researchers at the University of Manchester discovered two types of brain cells with distinct electrical properties that differ significantly between day and night. One type contains a key gene and can survive high levels of excitability, while the other cannot, contradicting accepted theory on how the daily clock works.
Enzyme may be a key to Alzheimer's-related cell death
A Purdue University researcher has discovered that increasing protein phosphatase 5 (PP5) in neurons reduces reactive oxygen species-induced cell death, a mechanism linked to Alzheimer's disease. PP5 overexpression also prevents amyloid beta-mediated stress pathways.
UNC study pinpoints gene controlling number of brain cells
A UNC study found that the GSK-3 gene plays a crucial role in regulating the balance between neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Deleting this gene led to an overabundance of proliferating stem cells, resulting in fewer mature neurons. This discovery has implications for treating neuropsychiatric disorders.
Case Western Reserve University discovers Merkel cell originates from skin, not the neural crest
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that Merkel cells, responsible for touch perception, originate from the skin, contradicting previous speculation. The study's results provide significant insights into the development and function of Merkel cells, which may hold implications for understanding Merkel cell carcinoma.
A step toward better brain implants using conducting polymer nanotubes
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed brain implants coated with conducting polymer nanotubes, which can record neural signals better than conventional metal electrodes. The new implants may eventually lead to more effective treatment of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease and paralysis.
Nanoresearchers challenge dogma in protein transportation in cells
Researchers found that the number of cracks in the membrane determines how many proteins are bound, contradicting earlier ideas about affinity. This knowledge could lead to a better understanding of cellular processes and diseases such as depression and Alzheimer's.
With a flash of light, a neuron's function is revealed
Researchers used light-activated proteins to pinpoint the neural cell responsible for a specific behavior in zebrafish, a breakthrough that could lead to new insights into biological systems and synthetic biology applications. This technique may also aid in optimizing biofuels and disease-fighting therapies.
A new protein partnership that leads to pediatric tumor regression
Researchers at Weizmann Institute discovered a new protein partnership between TrkA and CCM2 that leads to pediatric tumor regression. This finding may lead to the development of drugs that induce tumor regression. The study found that TrkA and CCM2 are always expressed together in tumors with high regression rates.
Toward a nanomedicine for brain cancer
Scientists have developed nanoparticles that can target and destroy glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain cancer cells using light-sensitive titanium dioxide material. The 'nanobio hybrids' killed up to 80% of brain cancer cells after exposure to focused white light, making them a promising part of brain cancer therapy.
Monkey brains signal the desire to explore
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have made a breakthrough in understanding how monkeys weigh costs and benefits when deciding whether to explore new options or stick with what they know. By analyzing neural signals in the posterior cingulate cortex, the team was able to predict which strategy the monkey would employ.
Alcohol, pregnancy and brain cell death
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to a range of adverse outcomes, including learning disabilities and increased susceptibility to diseases. The destruction of beta-endorphin neurons in the hypothalamus region can result in permanent impairment of stress and immune system functions throughout life.
Discovery of natural odors could help develop mosquito repellents
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a novel class of compounds that could pave the way for developing inexpensive and safe mosquito repellents. These odorants, including hexanol and 2,3-butanedione, prevent CO2-sensitive neurons in mosquitoes from functioning.
Gene mutation alone causes transmissible prion disease
Researchers at Whitehead Institute have shown that a single gene mutation can cause a transmissible neurodegenerative disease in mice, similar to human fatal familial insomnia. The study demonstrates that mutations associated with prion diseases are sufficient to cause the disease and the spontaneous generation of transmissible prions.
Watching stem cells repair the human brain
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have successfully tracked bone marrow stem cells as they repair damaged brain tissue in a live animal model of Huntington's disease. The innovative use of MRI tracking enables the monitoring of cell viability and migration towards diseased areas, paving the way for potential therapy.
Caltech researchers pinpoint neurons that control obesity in fruit flies
Researchers at Caltech have pinpointed two groups of neurons in fruit fly brains that regulate fat stores, mirroring mammalian brain function. Silencing these neurons led to obese flies, while overactivating them produced lean ones, offering a promising model for studying human obesity and developing new treatments.
Active ingredients in marijuana found to spread and prolong pain
Scientists discovered that endocannabinoids in the human body can disable brakes on pain signals, leading to prolonged chronic pain. In contrast, THC from cannabis may worsen toothaches, but could alleviate neuropathic pain.
No experience required: Category-specific brain organization in sighted and blind humans
Researchers found category-specific brain activation in both sighted and blind humans, suggesting innate structure of the human brain. The ventral stream's medial-to-lateral organization reflects preferences for nonliving-to-living stimuli, indicating evolutionary history constraints.
Life and death in the living brain
Scientists have demonstrated a direct link between the death of old neurons and their replacement by newly born ones in a living vertebrate. The study found that introducing a chemical inhibitor to slow apoptosis resulted in fewer new neurons being formed, providing insights into age-related diseases.
Live recordings of cell communication
Scientists have recorded live vesicle fusion on the nano-scale using Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET). This breakthrough allows for real-time measurement of vesicle shape and properties, opening up new avenues for understanding neurological and infectious diseases.
On the move
Researchers at the Salk Institute found that human brain cells harbor astonishing genomic variability due to mobile DNA elements. This phenomenon may drive evolution and create neural diversity, making each person unique.
Scientists isolate protein that may be 'boon' to medicine
Researchers have isolated a unique protein that affects both gene expression and protein transport, which may lead to new medicine treatments. The findings could provide insights into various biological processes, including cell movement and neural networking.
Study provides documentation that tumor 'stem-like cells' exist in benign tumors
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have isolated stem-like cells from benign pituitary tumors and shown they can generate new tumors in laboratory mice. The study supports the cancer stem cell hypothesis, suggesting similar mechanisms may be involved in malignant and benign tumor formation.
Study pinpoints drugs that prevent epilepsy, seizures after severe brain injury
Researchers discovered a drug that blocks transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) receptors can prevent brain changes associated with epilepsy in rats. This treatment halts hyper-excitability and prevents gene expression changes, offering hope for preventing epilepsy in humans after severe brain injury.