Articles tagged with Neurons
Scientists have identified a genetic switch called hairy that helps oxygen-deprived cells survive by suppressing non-essential activity. The study, using fruit flies as a model, reveals how this metabolic slowdown occurs and may hold clues for human cell survival under low-oxygen conditions.
Researchers have identified genes that control cell death as contributing to age-related hearing loss. The study used mice to chart the activity of over 22,000 genes, finding eight genes involved in the apoptotic process whose activity differed between normal and hearing-loss mice.
Researchers discovered a new therapeutic target for pain control, identifying a protein that acts in pain-sensing neurons to convert chemical messengers into ones that suppress pain. The protein, PAP, is eight times more effective at suppressing pain than morphine and has longer-lasting effects.
Researchers discovered GPR91 receptor's role in unchecked vascular growth leading to vision loss in common diseases. The receptor may also help preserve neurons and prevent cancer growth by blocking blood vessel expansion.
A novel case of coexisting small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and villous adenoma in the ampulla of Vater is reported. The patient underwent Whipple's operation, but unfortunately died from pneumonia three months post-surgery.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine researchers reveals a critical function of the MeCP2 protein in regulating neuronal behavior, particularly in relation to stress, aggression, and obesity. The findings demonstrate that MeCP2 is essential for tempering neural responses, enabling appropriate behavior in novel social situations.
Dr. Sanjay Kumar, a UC Berkeley bioengineer, has been awarded a $1.5 million NIH New Innovator Award to investigate the role of mechanical forces in human health and disease. His research aims to understand how cells process biophysical cues, which could lead to the development of new chemotherapeutic drugs for brain tumors.
A glitch in iron transport may underlie Type IV mucolipidosis (ML4) and related symptoms like mental retardation and diminished motor abilities. The same deficit is also implicated in aging and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, leading to potential new avenues for treatment.
Researchers discovered a genetic connection between neurons and immune response cells in roundworms, showing that specific neurons can regulate immune responses. This finding could lead to new approaches to boost innate immunity against different pathogens.
A unique case of gastric cancer combined with adenocarcinoma, choriocarcinoma, and neuroendocrine cell carcinoma has been reported. The prognosis for this rare type of gastric cancer is poor, as seen in the case where the patient died due to hepatic failure.
Researchers found that our brains use the timing of visual input to recognize objects, even when they appear differently. By analyzing neural activity in monkeys, they demonstrated that the brain can learn to confuse similar images through temporal contiguity, leading to improved object recognition.
Researchers used an engineered virus to deliver a glowing protein into newborn brain cells in an animal model of Parkinson's disease, revealing most cells are glial and do not form neurons. Further gene delivery experiments showed no effect on neuron formation but increased the number of oligodendrocytes supporting neurons.
Researchers at Durham University have developed two synthetic molecules that can direct stem cells to 'differentiate' into specific tissue types, improving the reliability of experiments and potentially reducing animal use. The new molecules, EC23 and EC19, are more stable than natural compounds currently used in laboratory research.
Researchers investigate how much alcohol exposure during fetal development can lead to facial malformations, brain damage, and other lifelong issues. Exposure to just a few glasses of wine in early pregnancy increases cell death, resulting in irreversible damage to the fetus's face and possibly its brain and spinal cord.
A Monash University scientist has discovered that appetite-suppressing cells in the human brain degenerate over time, leading to increased hunger and potential weight gain. The research found that free radicals attack these cells after eating meals rich in carbohydrates and sugars.
Mosquitoes avoid DEET because of its bad smell, which is detected by specific neurons on their antennae. The study corrects long-standing erroneous dogma about DEET's mode of action, providing new insights into the development of more effective repellents.
Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch have found that shutting down gastrin-releasing peptide receptors can dramatically suppress neuroblastoma tumor formation and slow its spread. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapies for this devastating disease.
Dr. Edwin Monuki will study choroid plexus epithelial cells, which produce cerebrospinal fluid to promote normal nervous system health and function. Success in generating these cells could lead to clinical therapies and screens for new drugs for neurological disorders.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience identifies GABA as a key player in regulating energy balance, leading to leaner mice with increased energy expenditure and resistance to diet-induced obesity. The discovery suggests that targeting GABA release may be an effective strategy for tackling obesity and metabolic disease.
Scientists at Boston Children's Hospital have identified the Otx2 protein as a key factor in triggering brain plasticity, allowing the brain to rewire and adapt. This discovery has implications for understanding developmental disorders like autism and potential treatments for improving learning and cognitive function.
A new study from Indiana University and the University of Montreal provides a model for understanding random synchronization in brain neurons. The findings suggest that spontaneous neural activity can help the brain remain flexible and responsive to external events, potentially leading to better treatments for conditions like epilepsy.
Researchers at the University of California-Irvine have discovered that adult stem cells in the mammalian brain originate from ependymal cells lining the ventricles. These cells can be coaxed into dividing, providing a promising approach to treating neurological disorders and injuries such as Parkinson's disease and stroke.
Researchers created a laboratory model to study Alzheimer's disease mechanisms at the molecular level. The model found that amyloid beta peptides cause a 'leaky' membrane, disrupting normal impulse transmission and leading to cell toxicity.
Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered the key nerve connections that enable flies to maintain a steady gaze while flying and responding to obstacles. This finding could lead to improvements in technical control systems for autonomous air vehicles.
Mutations in PS1 and PS2 proteins disrupt calcium ion flow, leading to increased amyloid beta production. The study identifies the inositol trisphosphate receptor as a potential target for new therapeutic options.
Briscoe's work revealed a novel mechanism that allows cells to integrate time of exposure and concentration of Shh to mount a graded response, leading to a paradigm shift in understanding cell identity specification. His research has far-reaching implications for the control of cell identity in various contexts.
Scientists have discovered that inhibiting an enzyme involved in programmed cell death can protect brain regions from neurodegeneration in living birds. The research has the potential to help develop clinical strategies for treating strokes and human age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and dementia.
A recent study published in Neuron reveals that the brain's decision-making region encodes information associated with the magnitude and delay of rewards. This finding sheds light on why humans and animals prefer immediate over delayed rewards, known as temporal discounting.
Researchers from Harvard Medical School and Brandeis University used a full-genome RNAi screen to identify genes essential for brain development in neurons. The study revealed unexpected roles for genes involved in signaling, protein trafficking, and cytoskeletal proteins.
Researchers discovered that statins increase the development of oligodendrocytes from glial progenitor cells, a crucial reservoir for brain cell customization. The findings suggest potential benefits and risks associated with statin use in brain health and dementia prevention.
Researchers found that humans prefer novel stimuli over familiar ones and associate novelty with activation of the ventral striatum, a region linked to reward anticipation. This suggests humans use novelty as a substitute for true choice uncertainty.
Researchers at Rutgers University discovered a protein that suppresses cell division in brain cells, effectively 'putting the brakes' on Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that when this brake fails, dementia results.
Researchers have genetically programmed embryonic stem cells to become nerve cells when transplanted into the brain, resulting in tangible therapeutic improvement in mice with stroke. The new nerve cells integrate into the existing network and provide cognitive benefits.
Researchers discovered that BK channels become abnormally active after a seizure, leading to neuronal overexcitability, which may be associated with epilepsy development. A BK channel antagonist reversed abnormal excitability, offering new hope for individuals suffering from epilepsy.
Researchers identified two peptides, NORQ and Hcrt, as crucial regulators of stress-induced analgesia in mice. The peptides interact with each other to modulate pain perception, suggesting a potential link to medical conditions caused by excessive stress.
Scientists are using a powerful supercomputer to create a model of normal human language that can read, comprehend, and repeat basic words. The 'Chatter Box' project aims to understand how the brain supports language function and how it breaks down after brain damage.
A new study reveals that ownership increases value by enhancing the salience of possible loss, explaining the aversion to parting with possessions. The endowment effect is linked to increased activation in brain regions associated with predicted gain and loss.
Researchers at Rutgers University found that beta-endorphin peptide-producing neurons in the brain regulate stress response and immune function, controlling tumor growth. The study shows promise for therapeutic treatments to bolster the immune system.
Research reveals new neurons produced in cerebellum of young and adult rabbits, expanding understanding of mammalian neurogenesis. This breakthrough opens new avenues for brain repair and regeneration research in humans.
Researchers found that MeCP2 is a key regulator of genes in the hypothalamus, turning them on and off. Altering MeCP2 levels can cause Rett syndrome or other neurological disorders, highlighting the need for tailored treatments.
Seven pioneering scientists recognized for transforming human knowledge in nanoscience, neuroscience and astrophysics. The Kavli prizes have been awarded to seven scientists who have advanced our understanding of ultra-small matter properties, brain circuitry and quasars.
Researchers identified regulatory sequences that act like zip codes, determining where odour receptors are expressed in olfactory neurons. These elements positively and negatively regulate receptor expression, suggesting a broader role in nervous system development.
Astrocytes have been found to produce a protective protein called metallothionein (MT), which is secreted to surrounding nerves and helps prevent damage from free radicals and metal ions. The level of MT uptake by nearby nerves correlates with the extent of nerve repair.
A new study suggests that embryonic cells giving rise to connective and skeletal tissues of the skull and facial structures do not originate from the neural crest as previously believed. Instead, they come from a distinct thin layer of epidermal epithelial cells next to the neural crest.
A clinical trial found gene therapy to be safe and effective at slowing disease progression in Batten disease, a rare genetic disorder. Neurological function was assessed using a rating scale throughout an 18-month follow-up period.
A Northwestern University study has discovered that multicellular organisms respond to stress in an integrated manner, with two specialized neurons controlling the response of individual cells. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that cells within a multicellular organism respond individually to stress conditions.
Normally functioning prions prevent neurons from self-destruction by inducing overactive brain cells that respond longer and more vigorously to stimulation. This hyperactivity eventually leads to neuron death, potentially explaining why misfolded prions cause dementia.
Yale scientists found that both male and female flies have similar brains and that specific signals can trigger 'male' behavior in females. The study suggests a largely unisex brain, with subtle anatomical differences making the difference between male and female behavior.
Dr. Milan Fiala has received the 2008 Alzheimer Award for his work on phagocytosis of amyloid-beta and inflammation in Alzheimer's disease. His research suggests that the immune system's failure to clear waste products from the brain is a key contributor to the disease.
A new study reveals that yeast mitochondria play a crucial role in regulating cell division, with implications for treating human diseases. The research found that mitochondria can act as the 'command center' directing cell division, and that understanding this process could lead to therapeutic breakthroughs.
Researchers found that perceiving a good reputation activates the brain's reward system in a similar manner to monetary rewards. The study used fMRI experiments on 19 people and found robust activation of reward-related brain areas, particularly the striatum.
A study in flies found that despite sex-based behaviors, their brains have a largely unisex structure, suggesting key switches control the difference between male and female behavior. Researchers discovered that artificial activation of male-specific singing neurons triggered female flies to exhibit male-like behavior.
Researchers found that rats use exploratory sniffing to discriminate odors quickly, with neural responses confirming minimal processing takes place in the olfactory bulb. The study suggests odorant identity may be encoded by sequence of responses rather than peak activation.
A new Alzheimer's vaccine shows promise in clearing beta-amyloid plaques from the brain, but lacks impact on learning and memory impairments. Researchers suggest that a combination of therapies targeting plaque growth and neuron damage may provide better treatment opportunities.
Researchers discovered that astrocytes play a crucial role in cannabinoid signaling, interacting with neurons through endocannabinoid-glutamate signaling. This finding may lead to the development of new treatments for cannabinoid-related drug abuse.
Scientists identified Lis1 gene as essential for neuroepithelial stem cell division in mice, providing insight into brain development and potential link to lissencephaly. The study suggests neural migration defects may be caused by defects in other processes like proliferation and division.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified proteins that promote tumor growth in certain types of cancer, including breast and ovarian cancer. Targeting these proteins with small molecules may lead to new therapeutic options for patients.
A study by Michigan Medicine researchers found that pain levels in patients with fibromyalgia decreased when glutamate levels went down. This suggests that glutamate may play a role in the disease and could be used as a biomarker of disease severity, leading to potential new treatments.
A new study from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine explores the neural mechanisms behind hunger and food cravings. The research found that when subjects were fasting, their brains responded strongly to visual cues of donuts, highlighting the brain's ability to prioritize needs in a complex environment.
Researchers uncover the specific receptor subtypes affected by chronic nicotine exposure, revealing new insights into its addictive properties. A two-protein complex also protects nerve cells by promoting growth and survival, showing promise as a therapeutic agent.