Neurophysiology
Articles tagged with Neurophysiology
Longevity-linked APOE2 gene variant helps neurons repair DNA and resist aging
Longevity-linked APOE2 gene variant helps neurons repair DNA and resist aging
The APOE2 gene variant is linked to exceptional longevity and reduced Alzheimer's risk, thanks to its ability to help human neurons keep their DNA intact and resist cellular senescence. This study reveals a previously underappreciated function of the gene, shifting attention away from its role in cholesterol transport.
Oral small-molecule GLP-1 drugs penetrate deep into the brain to suppress cravings
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.
Lesions as a window into cause: a psychiatrist bets that circuits, not regions, explain psychiatric disorders
Gonçalo Cotovio uses lesion network mapping to identify the circuits responsible for psychiatric symptoms, aiming to develop personalized brain stimulation treatments. His work has produced striking findings in mania and obsessive-compulsive disorder, with ambitions to extend to disordered feeding behavior.
Under crushing hypergravity, flies adapt — and recover
Researchers subjected fruit flies to extreme gravitational forces and found they adapted and recovered, showing resilience in movement and energy use. The study suggests the brain makes energy trade-offs based on gravity levels, with moderate increases pushing for more movement and higher energy demands.
Neurophysiology: How the brain recovers from noise-induced damage
Scientists found that the brain adapts to noise-induced damage within 24 hours by increasing excitability and inhibitory inputs in the superior paraolivary nucleus. This enables the restoration of critical timing information for sound processing, despite diminished sensitivity to quieter sounds.
EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium to convene neuroscience community in Munich
The EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium will bring together the global neuroscience community to shape the EBRAINS 10-Year-Roadmap. A total of 159 submissions from 134 unique contributors across 25 countries have been received, reflecting the momentum of Europe's digital neuroscience landscape.
Ten early-career neuroscientists selected as 2026 Leon Levy Scholars across New York City
The 2026 cohort of Leon Levy Scholars in Neuroscience will pursue research projects addressing neurological disorders and developing new treatments. The program provides scientific and professional career development opportunities, including mentorship and networking.
Scientists reverse brain aging, with a nasal spray
Researchers developed a nasal spray that reversibly reduces brain inflammation, restores cellular power plants, and improves memory. The treatment bypasses the brain's protective shield through intranasal delivery, suppressing chronic inflammation and promoting successful brain aging.
Male octopus’ specialized arm is a dual-purpose sensory and mating organ
A male octopus's dual-purpose arm can detect progesterone, a hormone produced by the ovaries, allowing it to locate the oviducts for fertilization. This specialized organ demonstrates how sensory systems can shape reproductive behavior and potentially influence speciation.
Proof for theory of visual perception
Researchers confirmed core predictions of Hubel and Wiesel's model by analyzing signal transmission at individual synapses between the thalamus and visual cortex. They found that orientation selectivity emerges through cortical circuits, resolving a long-standing controversy in neuroscience.
Shedding light on the brain: new method controls neural pathways
A new study uses optogenetics to control specific communication pathways in the common marmoset brain, offering a clearer view of complex behavior and brain disorders. This method enables researchers to manipulate individual long-range brain circuits with greater precision than before.
Dreams may make sleep feel deeper, even when the brain is more active
Researchers found that vivid dreaming helps sustain deep sleep perception across the night, offering a new perspective on what shapes our perception of sleep depth. The quality of dreams, especially immersiveness, appears crucial in interpreting brain activity during sleep.
Neuroscientist from US-Mexico border dismantles science’s class problem from the inside
Dr. Cazares co-founded Colors of the Brain and advocated for GRE removal to support students from underprivileged backgrounds. He aims to bring neuroscience to underserved communities through portable, affordable, and non-invasive methods.
Astrocytes shape motor coordination development in late adolescence
A new study reveals that astrocytes regulate inhibitory signaling in the cerebellum during development, enabling the emergence of flexible and precise motor coordination. In contrast, younger animals rely on neuron-derived tonic inhibition, which is replaced by astrocyte-derived tonic inhibition in late adolescence.
Eye tests reveal brain trauma more than a decade after concussions
Researchers found that veterans with prior concussions showed slower and less accurate eye movements, along with reduced performance on attention-based tasks. These subtle brain changes can be measured more than a decade after the original injury.
A clinical reveals that aniridia causes a progressive loss of corneal sensitivity
A study published in Cornea reveals that aniridia not only alters corneal structure but also affects sensory nerve function, leading to a progressive decline in corneal sensitivity. In adulthood, patients experience difficulty distinguishing stimulus intensity and reduced tear production, compromising eye defense mechanisms.
Dopamine selects, astrocytes refine: a new mechanism for motor-learning circuit rewiring
A new study reveals that astrocytes actively participate in motor-learning circuit rewiring by eliminating synapses in the striatum. The research identifies MEGF10 as a key molecular mediator of this process, which is regulated by dopamine signaling and neural activity.
Babies with an increased likelihood of autism may struggle to settle into deep, restorative sleep, according to a new study from the University of East Anglia.
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that babies with an increased likelihood of autism may struggle to settle into deep, restorative sleep. Those with high sensory sensitivity slept more lightly even in quiet environments.
Brainwaves of mothers and children synchronize when playing together – even in an acquired language
Researchers found that brain synchrony between mothers and children is equally strong when playing in the native language or an acquired second language. This suggests that multilingualism can support healthy communication and learning without disrupting the brain-to-brain connection.
Sleep‑aligned fasting improves key heart and blood‑sugar markers
A new study found that aligning overnight fasting with the body's natural sleep-wake rhythm improved cardiovascular and metabolic health. Participants who extended their fast by two hours and dimmed lights three hours before bedtime showed significant improvements in blood pressure, heart rate, and blood-sugar control.
Sleep Innovation Laboratories kicks off at Center for BrainHealth with key hire, international accolades
The Sleep Innovation Laboratories, led by Dr. Matthew Walker and Eti Ben Simon, aims to bridge foundational neuroscience with real-world application related to sleep. The Labs will focus on creating greater access to engaging, actionable sleep education and advancing a core strategy of the Center for BrainHealth.
Federation of European Neuroscience Societies Forum 2026, 6-10 July, Barcelona, Spain
The FENS Forum 2026 will be Europe's largest neuroscience congress, covering areas of basic to translational research. Journalists can register for free and attend symposia and poster sessions.
Pink noise reduces REM sleep and may harm sleep quality
A new study found that pink noise can reduce restorative REM sleep and interfere with sleep recovery, while earplugs were more effective in protecting sleep against traffic noise. The findings challenge the widespread use of ambient sound machines and apps marketed as sleep aids.
ŌURA and National University of Singapore open Joint Lab to advance research in personalized preventive health
The ŌURA–NUS Joint Lab combines wearable biometric data with sleep science expertise to study how sleep and physical activity shape long-term health outcomes. The lab aims to generate insights that help individuals, clinicians, and health systems shift from reactive care to proactive preventive health.
Ambitious model fails to explain near-death experiences, experts say
UVA experts Bruce Greyson and Marieta Pehlivanova argue that the NEPTUNE model leaves many unanswered questions about near-death experiences. Despite its sophistication, the model selectively ignores scientific evidence and fails to address key aspects of NDEs.
Discovery reveals how keto diet can prevent seizures when drugs fail
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have discovered how the keto diet protects against epilepsy seizures by regulating brain cell activity. The team found that a specific cellular receptor, HCAR2, plays a crucial role in reducing seizures, and may be targeted for new treatments.
One in four older Americans with dementia prescribed risky brain-altering drugs despite safety warnings
Research finds that nearly one in four Medicare beneficiaries with dementia are prescribed potentially harmful medications linked to falls, confusion, and hospitalization. Despite declines in prescribing rates, high levels of inappropriate prescribing persist among older adults with cognitive impairment.
JMIR Publications’ JMIR Neurotechnology invites submissions on novel technological advances for neurological disorders
JMIR Publications' JMIR Neurotechnology journal now accepts submissions on novel technological advances for neurological disorders. Researchers can submit review articles exploring emerging technologies, such as neurofeedback, neurosurgery, and brain-machine interfaces.
Scientists trace facial gestures back to their source. before a smile appears, the brain has already decided
A new study published in Science uncovers how the brain prepares and produces facial gestures through a temporally organized hierarchy of neural codes. The research found that multiple brain regions work in parallel, each contributing different timing-based codes to generate coherent facial gestures.
Precision empowerment for brain "eavesdropping": CAS team develops triple-electrode integrated functional electrode for simultaneous monitoring of neural signals and chemical transmitters during sleep-wake cycles
Researchers developed a triple-electrode integrated functional electrode for synchronized monitoring of neural signals and dopamine release during sleep-wake transitions. The study highlights the critical role of dopamine in regulating sleep-stage transitions and identifies distinct neuronal populations involved in this process.
A molecule our bodies produce may help defend against Alzheimer’s disease: NUS Medicine study
Researchers discovered that calcium alpha-ketoglutarate restores key memory-related brain functions disrupted in Alzheimer's disease. The molecule enhances synaptic plasticity, protects neurons from degenerative changes, and supports healthier cognitive ageing.
Night shifts aren’t just tiring, they can be deadly
A new study from Texas A&M University reveals that circadian disruptions change the structure of mammary glands, weaken immune defenses, and fuel aggressive breast cancer. Disabling an immune checkpoint molecule called LILRB4 helps restore the immune system's ability to fight back.
Holding back laughter
A research team at the University of Göttingen investigated how laughter can be regulated and found that social cues can strongly interfere with these efforts. The results showed that suppression and distraction were effective strategies to hold back laughter, while cognitive reappraisal could reduce how funny the jokes felt.
New BrainHealth research reveals tradeoffs on sleep with cannabis use for chronic pain
Research reveals cannabis use may promote deep, restorative sleep critical for physical restoration and immune function, but at the cost of reduced emotional regulation and memory integration. Chronic cannabis users experience diminishing benefits as use increases.
How do brains stay stable, and when might a dose of flexibility be helpful?
Scientists at Salk Institute find protein CCN1, secreted by astrocytes, maintains stable neural circuits in adult brains. The discovery could lead to new therapeutics for brain injury and stroke.
Observing synapses in action
A team of researchers has captured the process of synaptic vesicle fusion with neurotransmitters, revealing a direct form of vesicle recruitment that enables neurons to send signals over longer periods. This breakthrough could lead to targeted therapies for synaptic disorders and improve our understanding of brain function.
Day & night: Cancer disrupts the brain’s natural rhythm
Research found that breast cancer flattens corticosterone release in mice, reducing quality of life and increasing mortality. Disruptions to diurnal rhythms have been linked to stress responses like insomnia and anxiety in cancer patients.
AI helps explain how covert attention works and uncovers new neuron types
Researchers used AI to study covert attention and found emergent properties in artificial neural networks, including new neuron types with response properties never highlighted before. The findings have implications for our understanding of the human brain and its ability to process information.
Heat signaling from plants is an ancient pollinator signal
Plants have evolved thermogenic strategies to attract pollinators, including generating heat through cellular respiration. Cycads rely on specialized beetle pollinators and exhibit daily bursts of infrared radiation in the afternoon and early evening, which is sufficient to attract these insects.
Wireless device ‘speaks’ to the brain with light
Scientists developed a wireless device that uses light to send information directly to the brain, bypassing natural sensory pathways. The soft device delivers precise patterns of light through the bone to activate neurons across the cortex, allowing mice to learn and interpret meaningful signals.
How brain activity changes throughout the day
Researchers developed an experimental protocol to monitor brain activity in mouse models, finding that brain activity shifts from inner layers to cortex throughout the day. This discovery could lead to new methods for assessing fatigue and understanding mental health issues.
Pusan National University researchers identify the brain enzyme that drives nicotine addiction and smoking dependence
Astrocytic glutamine synthetase plays a key role in regulating glutamate signaling, contributing to nicotine-induced brain changes and locomotor sensitization. A custom-designed peptide inhibits this process, demonstrating the importance of astrocyte communication in nicotine addiction.
Scientists identify five ages of the human brain over a lifetime
Researchers identified five phases of brain structure, each supported by four turning points between birth and death, revealing key developments in cognitive performance, neural efficiency, and regional compartmentalization. The study provides context for understanding why brains develop differently at various stages of life.
UT Health San Antonio scientists launch innovative therapy study to help Parkinson’s patients swallow safely
Researchers aim to strengthen and retrain swallowing function in people with early Parkinson's disease using a novel treatment program. The three-year study will test the effectiveness of SwallowFIT on swallowing difficulties, aspiration rates and nutritional status.
New findings in split-brain science: Even minimal fiber connections can unify consciousness
Researchers found that a small section of intact corpus callosum is enough to sustain full integration of the two brain halves, contrary to previous assumptions. The discovery has implications for epilepsy surgery and brain injury recovery.
Pancreatic cancer forms "synapses": tumors use neurotransmitters to drive their own growth
Researchers discovered that pancreatic tumors form pseudosynapses, exploiting the body's nervous system to drive tumor growth. Calcium waves triggered by glutamate binding promote metastasis and cancer progression.
This is your brain without sleep
Researchers found that sleep-deprived individuals experience attentional failures coinciding with a flushing of CSF from the brain. During these lapses, physiological changes occur, including a flux of CSF out and then back in. The study suggests that the brain attempts to compensate for lost cleansing by initiating pulses of CSF flow.
Drinking for two? Prenatal alcohol exposure rewires the brain and fuels compulsive behavior, new study finds
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.
Even boneless insects have an endocrine system for calcium control
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba identified a peptide hormone called Capa that regulates calcium levels in fruit flies. The study found that Capa is secreted by specific neurons and acts on organs similar to vertebrate kidneys to mobilize calcium from stored reserves.
New research uncovers how the brain’s activity, energy use, and blood flow change as people fall asleep
A new study using next-generation imaging technology discovered that when the brain is falling asleep, it shows a coordinated shift in activity. Areas involved in thinking, memory, and daydreaming quiet down and use less energy during NREM sleep.
Child behavioral problems are associated with decreased heart rate variability in parents, new Concordia research shows
A study of 80 couples found that child- and marriage-related stressors affect self-regulation, particularly in fathers. Lower heart rate variability was associated with more difficult child behavior, with marital stress amplifying this effect.
Researchers develop novel virtual reality approach to support stroke rehabilitation
A new virtual reality training task has been developed to help stroke survivors living with visuospatial neglect, a disabling condition affecting attention and awareness of one side of space. The VR task incorporates interactive exercises and audiovisual cues to engage patients and support rehabilitation.
Deep sleep supports memory via brain fluid and neural rhythms
Researchers have discovered that deep sleep plays a crucial role in controlling cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, which is essential for clearing waste from the brain. During slow-wave sleep, changes in cerebrospinal fluid signals are time-locked to slow brain waves and other neural events.
Astrocytes are superstars in the game of long-term memory
A new study reveals that astrocytes, a type of glial cell, are responsible for stabilizing memories through repeated engagement. The researchers found that Fos activity in astrocytes only occurs during recall, and that these cells can be activated to produce stable memories.
Fruit flies teach us how to appreciate flavor
Scientists at RIKEN Center for Brain Science found that fruit flies use separate circuits to compute pleasant and unpleasant odors, challenging the idea that 'good' is the opposite of 'bad'. The discovery may contribute to a better understanding of human brain's flavor appreciation mechanisms.
How does the brain differentiate painful from non-painful touch?
Salk scientists pinpoint gracile nucleus as brain area responsible for differentiating between painful and non-painful touch, with dysfunction leading to chronic pain. Altered neuronal activity in the dorsal column nuclei drives mechanical allodynia, causing the brain to misinterpret innocuous light touch as painful.
Body movement-sensing fly neurons are turned off during active motion
Researchers discovered that proprioceptive nerve cells for sensing leg motion are deactivated during active movement in fruit flies. This selective suppression may enable the insect to quickly respond to sudden external events. The study advances basic scientific knowledge of sensory feedback and its application to clinical treatments
Psychedelics offer healing for concussion, traumatic brain injuries
A new review from the University of Victoria suggests that psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT may help treat concussions and traumatic brain injuries by increasing neuroplasticity and reducing inflammation. The compounds have shown promise in treating depression, anxiety, and other conditions in clinical research.