Articles tagged with Neuropharmacology
Researchers propose that natural hallucinogens evolved to serve ecological functions such as defense, communication, and stress response. By modulating serotonin signaling pathways, these compounds can influence behavior in other species.
A new study found that intranasal davunetide reaches the brain in higher amounts in female mice when estrogen peaks, with similar results seen in healthy adults. The findings suggest earlier trials mixing males and females may have obscured the true effects of the drug.
The University of Virginia has joined SPARK GLOBAL to leverage resources and expertise in accelerating the development of new medicines. This collaboration aims to reduce time from lab discoveries to clinic trials, delivering tangible healthcare solutions to patients.
A new study found that lithium treatment can improve impulse control and decision-making in individuals with a history of medically severe suicide attempts. Researchers believe earlier identification of suicide risk and intervention with lithium may help reduce the likelihood of suicidal behavior.
A recent NIH-funded study reveals that oral small-molecule GLP-1 drugs can suppress eating for pleasure and reduce cravings by targeting a deeper brain region, potentially treating other dysfunctions in reward processing. The findings provide insight into the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of these medications.
A new study found that nearly 1,200 TBI respondents used psychedelics to treat or manage physical health conditions, with 208 participants using them to manage brain injury-related symptoms. Researchers reported a 90% self-reported symptom improvement rate.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo have discovered a safer and more effective way to treat Alzheimer's disease by combining anti-amyloid antibodies with molecules found in grapes, berries, peanuts, and turmeric. This combination approach neutralizes amyloid protein clumping in the brain, leading to better outcomes.
Scientists at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a suite of AI-powered tools, called YuelDesign, YuelPocket and YuelBond, to transform how new drugs are created. These tools can design drug molecules tailored to fit their protein targets exactly, even accounting for protein flexibility.
Researchers discovered that neuronal nitric oxide synthase drives neuroblastoma through the mTOR signaling cascade. Treating cancer cells with a selective inhibitor called BA-101 collapsed tumor growth in mice with striking force, and silencing the nNOS gene also led to significant results.
Lawrence Toll has been named a senior member of the National Academy of Inventors for his pioneering work on pain pathways, reward systems, and potential treatments. His research focuses on identifying new drug targets and therapeutic strategies to combat chronic pain and addiction.
Dr. Gobbi challenges the global drug-development system, stating that promising treatments for mental illness are failing to reach patients due to venture capital and profit motives. Her research focuses on cannabis, melatonin, and psychedelics, with a goal of improving public-health decisions and treatment outcomes.
A new study by researchers from the University of Southern Denmark has found no evidence of naturally occurring DMT in the adult rat brain, even when its breakdown was inhibited. The study used highly sensitive methods to detect trace substances and examined whether administered DMT could be stored in serotonin neurons.
Chronic alcohol consumption alters endocannabinoid gene expression in reward- and decision-related brain regions, offering insights into addiction biology. This study reveals changes in CB1 and CB2 receptor genes, as well as GPR55 and FAAH enzymes, potentially leading to targeted therapeutic strategies.
Researchers from Korea University report a breakthrough in reviving an abandoned depression drug target by redesigning the molecular structure of neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists. New compounds exhibiting antidepressant-like effects have been identified, reducing depressive-like behavior and brain inflammation in mice.
In a new study, Northwestern scientists identified a previously unknown toxic sub-species of amyloid beta oligomers that drive brain changes in Alzheimer's disease. NU-9 decreased this toxin and reduced damage in a mouse model, suggesting it could prevent or delay the cascade of toxic events that destroy neurons.
A UBC Okanagan study found that microdosing psychedelics temporarily improves mood, creativity, and wellbeing, but these effects do not persist on non-dosing days. The study, tracking over 1,435 participants from 49 countries, suggests that microdosing may 'reactivate' or build upon prior effects of larger-dose psychedelic experiences.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have discovered a potential new treatment for Alzheimer's disease by targeting muscle protein Cathepsin B. The study found that increasing Ctsb in muscle tissue may offer protection against the effects of AD and promote brain cell growth, restoring protein balance and rebalancing brain activity.
A new compound MCH11, a monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor, shows promising effects in reducing alcohol consumption and motivation to drink in mice. The molecule exhibits anxiolytic and antidepressant properties with sex-dependent efficacy, correcting genetic alterations associated with alcohol use disorder.
A recent landmark study identifies adenosine as the critical mediator of rapid antidepressant action, connecting ketamine, ECT, and hypoxia. The discovery raises questions about the potential interference of caffeine with these treatments, highlighting the need for further research on adenosinergic modulation in depression.
Stuart S. Martin, PhD, has been appointed Chair of the Department of Pharmacology & Physiology at UMSOM, bringing over 20 years of success in advancing basic science research efforts and developing new drug therapies. His groundbreaking discovery of microtentacles on cancer cells promises to lead to new life-extending therapies.
A new study reveals how prenatal alcohol exposure impairs key brain cells and circuits, leading to cognitive inflexibility and increased risk of compulsive alcohol use. Researchers identified a specific brain cell affected by early alcohol exposure, providing a clear target for developing more effective treatments of FASD.
Psychedelic substances profoundly alter our perception of time, inducing temporal distortions that offer unprecedented insights into consciousness. By suppressing the default mode network and modulating multiple brain regions, psychedelics provide unique windows into brain function and mental health treatment.
Research synthesizes current evidence on psychedelic therapy's potential to fundamentally alter treatment paradigms for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Chronic stress contributes significantly to psychiatric illness worldwide, leaving traditional treatments with residual symptoms or side effects.
The review synthesizes clinical evidence on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, and existential distress. It identifies consistent patterns across diverse clinical applications and highlights the therapeutic potential of MDMA, including its oxytocin-mediated ...
A renowned geneticist, Dr. Martin Alda, has made a groundbreaking discovery that bipolar disorder is composed of multiple genetically distinct disorders, transforming treatment approaches worldwide. His research also highlights the importance of combining basic research with clinical observations to advance psychiatric care.
Researchers identified a promising treatment for PTSD, chronic pain, and alcohol misuse in rats. The study found that PPL-138 selectively reduced anxiety-like behavior, pain responses, and alcohol consumption in those with trauma-related anxiety.
A study found that lactate IV infusion increases brain-rejuvenating hormone BDNF levels in the bloodstream, similar to those after high-intensity exercise. The hormone promotes nerve cell growth and survival. Researchers suggest moderate exercise may be necessary for optimal benefits.
Scientists have identified the mechanism linking a mutation in the Shank3 gene with alterations in social behavior, revealing that vasopressin plays a crucial role in regulating sociability and aggression. The study shows that targeting specific vasopressin receptors can restore social abilities without affecting aggression.
Ibezapolstat, a new antibiotic, has been shown to be effective in treating Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections with high rates of sustained clinical cures. The study found that ibezapolstat killed harmful bacteria without harming the good bacteria in the gut, which helps prevent recurrent C. diff infections.
Professor Gregor Hasler's pioneering research reveals how psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA enhance neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to rewire itself and break free from depression, PTSD, and addiction. His discoveries have the potential to fundamentally alter international approaches to mental health treatment.
Dr. Harriet de Wit's groundbreaking research bridges animal and human drug studies, demonstrating that MDMA enhances feelings of social connectedness and challenging addiction treatment strategies. Her discoveries have profound implications for treating trauma-related disorders globally.
The JAK2-STAT3 pathway contributes to inflammation and injury after ischemic stroke. Targeting this pathway shows promise for reducing brain swelling, neuronal death, and improving recovery. Several inhibitors have been found effective in preclinical models, including Tyrphostin AG490, Ruxolitinib, and natural compounds like genistein.
Researchers used IntelliCage to assess spontaneous behavioral changes in a mouse model of schizophrenia, finding increased hyperactivity and exploratory behavior after treatment with MK-801. However, cognitive flexibility was impaired, suggesting schizophrenia-like behaviors.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are using a genetically tractable model organism, C. elegans, to dissect the cellular pathways impacted by amphetamines. The study aims to identify novel regulators of dopamine release and genes that mediate amphetamine's effects independently of traditional dopamine mechanisms.
Dr. Mirko Manchia's groundbreaking research identifies genetic markers predicting treatment response in bipolar patients, enabling precision medicine approaches to transform psychiatric care. He envisions a future where genetic testing becomes routine in psychiatric care.
Dr. Danielle Beckman's research uses animal models to understand how viruses like COVID-19 trigger neurological damage and accelerate Alzheimer's disease. Her work has established critical connections between viral infections and neurodegenerative processes.
The study identifies the brain circuit controlling associations between stimuli and allows for indirect associations. The amygdala plays a crucial role in linking olfactory and taste stimuli.
Research synthesizes evidence from dozens of studies on polygenic scores and their clinical implications, revealing consistent patterns that could contribute to personalized psychiatric care. Higher genetic risk for depression correlates with poorer treatment outcomes, including nonresponse to antidepressants and mood stabilizers.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University have discovered a potentially safer treatment for multiple disorders linked to altered dopamine signaling by blocking the kappa opioid receptor. The study found that this approach can correct behavioral deficits and normalize dopamine availability.
Scientists have developed a sugar-coated nanotherapy that effectively traps misfolded proteins, neutralizing their toxic effects on neurons. The treatment significantly boosts the survival of lab-grown human neurons under stress from disease-causing proteins.
Researchers at UC Davis have successfully synthesized ibogaine and its related compounds using a new, efficient method. The study's findings suggest that these analogues may be useful in treating substance use disorders and other conditions, and highlight the potential for safer and more effective medicines.
Researchers at EMBL Hamburg and CSSB have uncovered the molecular details of vitamin B1 absorption, revealing critical transporters and barriers that hinder its progress. The study sheds light on rare diseases caused by SLC19A3 mutations and potentially life-threatening hidden deficiencies triggered by certain medications.
Researchers identified the external globus pallidus as responsible for impaired decision-making in mice with Parkinson's disease treated with pramipexole. Hyperactivation of this region was linked to poor risk-taking behavior and reduced effectiveness of treatments.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a new method called CaST to track the activation of brain neurons and biomolecules by psychedelic drugs. The tool allows scientists to study the cellular mechanisms behind psychedelic treatments for brain disorders, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Researchers at the University of Würzburg have discovered a natural substance that can inhibit vitamin B6 degradation, increasing its levels in nerve cells involved in learning and memory processes. This compound, 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone, has been linked to improved spatial learning and memory capacity in mice.
The use of 'trip-killers' to shorten psychedelic drug trips is a growing concern among doctors, with benzodiazepines and antipsychotics being the most frequently recommended options. However, warnings about their potential side effects are rarely included, highlighting a need for greater awareness.
A new study reveals that esketamine nasal spray is effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, with 27.1% of patients achieving remission after 8 weeks compared to 17.6% on quetiapine XR. Long-term data shows sustained remission rates at 21.7% for esketamine NS and 14.1% for quetiapine XR.
Researchers at University of Tsukuba found that aripiprazole modulates the mammalian central circadian clock by disrupting synchronization among clock neurons and enhancing responsiveness to light stimuli in mice. This discovery expands the potential clinical usage of aripiprazole as a treatment for circadian rhythm sleep disorders.
Sahmyook University researchers discovered a correlation between methamphetamine-induced behavior and the expression of specific genes in mice models lacking Period 2 gene. They identified 19 genes that were activated only in response to repeated doses of methamphetamine.
The use of psychedelics in mental health treatment is gaining traction, but concerns about patient safety and regulation need to be addressed. Psychedelic-assisted therapy shows promise in treating conditions like depression and PTSD, but more research is needed on dosages, settings, and guidelines.
KNT-127 exhibits anti-stressing and anti-depressant effects in mice, improving social interaction and reducing stress-induced hormone levels. The agent suppresses neuronal inflammation and newborn death without affecting neurogenesis.
Researchers found that psilocybin facilitates fear extinction in mice by promoting hippocampal neuroplasticity. The study's results improve our understanding of the restorative effects of psilocybin on the brain and may lead to alternative treatments for PTSD.
Researchers at UC Davis discovered how oligodendrocyte-lineage cells transfer cell material to neurons in the mouse brain, providing a new mechanism for understanding brain maturation and finding treatments for neurological conditions. This discovery opens new possibilities for treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and P...
Researchers found that clonidine, a common blood pressure medication, can reduce the consolidation of traumatic memories in PTSD patients. By interacting with the adrenergic receptor axis, clonidine interferes with cofilin's ability to form mushroom-shaped dendritic spines, which are essential for memory formation. This suggests that c...
A study by Okayama University researchers found that neuromedin U (NMU) is involved in metabolic processes but its 'anti-hunger' function may not be crucial for rats. Unlike mice, NMU expression is restricted in the rat brain and does not suppress feeding behavior.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that brain stimulation combined with a nose spray containing nanoparticles can improve recovery after ischemic stroke. The treatment increased cognitive and motor functions, and weighed more quickly than those treated with TMS alone.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the efficiency of nanoparticle delivery into cells, particularly in stem cells. They found that nanoparticles become trapped in bubble-like vesicles, preventing them from reaching their targets.
A new study finds that women using hormonal contraceptives have lower rates of attempted suicides compared to those who do not use them. The research, published by the European Psychiatric Association, analyzed data from over 587,000 Finnish women and found a significant reduction in suicide attempts among hormonal contraceptive users.
Researchers at UC Davis plan to screen hundreds of compounds to discover nonhallucinogenic treatments for substance use disorders. The study aims to understand the basic mechanisms by which these compounds impact addiction and develop more effective treatments.
A new study suggests that supplementing a diet with Ascidiacea, also known as sea squirts, reverses some main signs of aging in animal models. The researchers found that plasmalogens, vital to body processes, decrease with age and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.