Articles tagged with Neurotransmitters
A new study reveals GIT proteins as critical presynaptic regulators of synaptic strength, uncovering previously unknown roles in regulating neurotransmitter release. This finding has significant implications for understanding neuronal communication and the development of neurological diseases.
MIT neuroscientists have discovered a new way that the brain strengthens connections between neurons. The presynaptic neuron plays a crucial role in this process, releasing neurotransmitters to stimulate growth of new connections and enhancing synaptic function.
Researchers have identified an age-related cause of arterial dysfunction, finding that older arteries have fewer sensory nerves and are less sensitive to a key neurotransmitter. This discovery could lead to future treatments for age-related vascular diseases such as stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have mapped the 3-D atomic structure of a two-part protein complex that controls the release of neurotransmitters from brain cells. This discovery could help launch new research on drugs for treating brain disorders such as depression, schizophrenia and anxiety.
A study by Northwestern University researchers found an intrinsic biological difference in the molecular regulation of synapses in the hippocampus between males and females. The drug URB-597 increased inhibitory effect in females, causing a decrease in neurotransmitter release, but had no effect in males.
Research found that prolonged noise exposure alters cells connected to the brain in mice, enabling them to conserve neurotransmitters and better cope with loud conditions. The cells also changed their structure to increase storage capacity for these chemicals.
Scientists at OIST Graduate University have determined that distance from calcium channels to vesicles impacts neuron's signaling precision. As rat subjects mature, the distance between gated channels and vesicles shrinks, increasing signal efficiency by 30%.
Researchers at OIST Graduate University found that extrasynaptic receptors are essential for establishing a plateau in the membrane potential of neurons, allowing them to signal more effectively. Blocking these receptors with memantine reduces the frequency and synchrony of neural activity.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute discover that neurotransmitter vesicles are already in close contact with the cell membrane before fusion occurs. This discovery provides insight into how synapses rapidly transmit information and could lead to new medical research benefits.
Alpha-synuclein regulates neuronal communication by self-association, clustering synaptic vesicles and restricting neurotransmission to manage communication. This newfound understanding may be critical for therapeutic interventions targeting alpha-synuclein levels and activity in Parkinson's disease.
Researchers found that anandamide, a cannabinoid compound, directly causes Ca2+ influx and triggers an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. The study discovered two independent mechanisms involving protein kinase C signaling pathway for anandamide's inhibitory effects on voltage-gated calcium channels.
A new study published in PNAS reveals how the GAD65 protein changes shape when activated, potentially linking it to type 1 diabetes. The research found that antibodies interact with the protein differently depending on its state, which may affect vaccine development for the disease.
A study by Columbia University Medical Center researchers found that miniature neurotransmission regulates synapse development and contributes to the growth of synapses. The findings suggest that abnormalities in this process may contribute to neurodevelopmental diseases.
Researchers discovered ultrafast recycling of synaptic vesicles in nerve cells, allowing for rapid signal transmission and potentially protecting against neurodegenerative diseases. This process enables the brain and muscles to function continuously without interruption.
Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered that a specific protein called RIM1α is modified by SUMO, acting as a 'molecular switch' to regulate neurotransmitter release. This finding has implications for understanding neurological disorders such as epilepsy and schizophrenia.
Recent Nobel Laureate Thomas C. Südhof presents a new model for neurotransmitter release, suggesting that SNARE proteins may not form a pore but instead physically force vesicles and axon membranes to fuse spontaneously.
Researchers at UCSB have discovered a mechanism that allows squid and octopuses to change color by using specialized cells in their skin called iridocytes. The cells create layers or lamellae that operate as tunable Bragg reflectors, allowing the animals to control their transparency and match their surroundings.
The study found that the mice had terrible attention spans and struggled with working memory and spatial memory due to the excessive release of acetylcholine. This highlights the importance of ACh in differentiating cues, but also suggests that too much of a good thing can be detrimental
Scientists at NIH report discovering a small molecule, natriuretic polypeptide b (Nppb), that streams ahead and selectively plugs into a specific nerve cell in the spinal cord, triggering the sensation of itch. In mice with Nppb-deficient neurons, itching was significantly reduced.
Researchers used Botox to discover a novel role for SNARE molecules in nerve cell signaling, linking fusion and retrieval processes. The findings have broad implications for understanding neuronal communication and diseases, including epilepsy and schizophrenia.
Studies on the fruit fly Drosophila show that blind flies can't see due to histamine recycling in glial cells. Flies lacking Ebony and Tan genes have impaired vision, but those with Black mutations still struggle to see without histamine recycling. Further research is needed to understand the role of enzyme Black in vision.
Researchers found that fragile X syndrome alters signaling in brain cells, leading to prolonged electrical surges and potential attention problems. Restoring the gene FMRP restored normal signaling.
A recent study by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers has identified a specific class of neurons in the central amygdala as crucial for encoding and recalling fear memories. The team used optogenetics to activate these neurons, which release neurotransmitters that enhance or inhibit synaptic connections, leading to fear responses.
Scientists have discovered a complex positive feedback loop in penile nerves that triggers waves of nitric oxide to keep the penis erect. This process, which involves phosphorylation, enables the sustained release of nitric oxide and maintains erection.
Researchers found that Alzheimer's protein APP is related to the production of neurotransmitters and can curb their creation. The study suggests a new mechanism by which abnormal APP deposits in Alzheimer's patients disrupt nerve cell signaling.
Researchers found that flies on low-calorie diets exhibit enhanced transmission of nerve signals in their brains and mouthparts. The team discovered increased release of neurotransmitters, which could be a novel therapeutic approach for people suffering from neuromuscular disorders.
Two studies reveal individual neurons control synaptic vesicle recycling speed, with variations across different neurons. This finding refines neuroscience's understanding of neurotransmission at the synaptic gap between brain cells.
A new study reveals that lead exposure damages brain function by disrupting the normal formation of synapses and altering the levels of key proteins involved in neurotransmitter release. The research provides a comprehensive mechanism for how lead ions impair brain development and function throughout life.
Eight scientists recognized with Kavli Prizes for discoveries transforming our knowledge of matter, nanotechnology, brain signals, telescopes, and physiological functions. The awards promote public understanding of science and encourage international cooperation.
Researchers have identified synaptotagmin1 as the sole trigger for neurotransmitter release in the brain, a breakthrough discovery published in the journal Science. This finding has significant implications for understanding brain malfunctions such as autism and epilepsy.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed an electrically conducting plastic delivery electrode that releases specific neurotransmitters to activate neighboring brain cells, enabling precise control of neural signals. This technology has the potential to treat various neurological conditions, including hearing loss, epilepsy,...
A study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers has identified a protein that regulates hormone release in the brain, with implications for women's reproductive health. The protein, Syt IV, tunes the release of hormones oxytocin and vasopressin, which control reproductive functions and fluid balance.
Researchers found that rats and humans with disrupted attention share similar patterns of behavior in a feature binding task, suggesting acetylcholine is necessary for this process. The study has important clinical implications, potentially leading to improved therapies for disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
Synaptotagmin-1 catalyzes membrane fusion at the synapse, allowing for rapid neurotransmitter release. The protein's C2B domain binds to calcium ions and interacts with both membranes to facilitate fast transmission.
Researchers found that a heat shock protein, Hsp90β, helps stabilize rapsyn, an unstable protein responsible for anchoring receptors to catch messages from neurons. This discovery could lead to new treatments for muscular dystrophies and neurological disorders.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a wearable mechanism that captures energy lost during walking to generate electricity. The device, which works similarly to regenerative braking in hybrid vehicles, has shown promise in powering devices with minimal user effort.
Researchers developed a biodegradable polymer containing acetylcholine-mimicking groups to stimulate neurite growth and guide nerve regeneration. The biomaterial promotes neuronal activity, enhancing recovery of sensory, motor, cognitive, or autonomic functions after central nervous system injury.
Researchers discovered that the chemical language of nerve cells is determined by electrical activity in the developing nervous system. This finding suggests modifying nerve activity could be a treatment for various brain disorders.
Researchers have found that a neurotransmitter pathway in the skin, involving substance P and its related receptor, may play a key role in temperature regulation. By blocking this pathway, they found reduced blood flow to the skin, suggesting more than one mechanism is involved in regulating body temperature.
Researchers found that otoferlin is essential for a late step of neurotransmitter release and may act as the major calcium sensor triggering membrane fusion at the inner hair cell ribbon synapse. The study suggests cochlear implants could benefit individuals with otoferlin-linked deafness.
The newly discovered tomosyn protein appears to play a key role in regulating synaptic release of neurotransmitters, suggesting its involvement in learning and memory. Mutant worms lacking tomosyn exhibit excessive neurotransmitter release, highlighting the protein's negative regulatory effect on synapse efficiency.
Researchers have identified a crucial nicotinic receptor in nematode worms that plays a significant role in muscle contraction. The discovery may have direct relevance to humans due to the similarity between the nematode receptor and the alpha-7 nicotinic receptor found in the human brain.
Researchers develop a computer model simulating signal transmission at a synapse in chick embryos, finding that 90% of neurotransmitter release occurs outside of synapses. This discovery opens up new possibilities for cell-to-cell communication in the nervous system and challenges traditional definitions of synapses.
Researchers have developed a biologically accurate computer simulation of synaptic function, indicating that the synapse may behave like a shotgun firing buckshot-like bursts of neurotransmitter to reach receptors arrayed beyond known receiving sites. The new data suggest an alternative mode of neurotransmission called ectopic release.
A team of researchers discovered a new protein, Vha100-1, necessary for the transmission of nerve signals. They found that this protein works together with SNARE proteins to facilitate the fusion of vesicles containing neurotransmitters and their release from nerve cells.
New research by UT Southwestern scientists reveals complexity in organization of synaptic vesicles within individual synapses, challenging long-held assumptions about neurotransmitter release. Two distinct types of synaptic vesicles are found to be responsible for spontaneous and activity-dependent release, which may aid in understandi...
Researchers found that older adults excel in visual processing tasks when the stimuli are large and high-contrast, whereas younger individuals struggle. This study provides evidence for changes in brain inhibition mechanisms as people age, shedding light on why older adults may perform better on certain visual tasks.
Scientists have successfully created a mouse lacking both MAO A and MAO B, revealing the combined actions of these enzymes in neurotransmitter regulation. This breakthrough may lead to new insights into anxiety- and stress-related disorders.
A new study found that Dap160 stabilizes the complex of molecules involved in vesicle formation and retrieval, allowing for continuous neurotransmitter release. This process is essential for neurons to communicate with each other.
Researchers at UCSD find that altering neural activity can change the type of neurotransmitter produced by nerve cells, raising hope for treating disorders caused by problems with neurotransmitters. This discovery could provide flexibility for the growth and operation of the nervous system.
A study published in Neuron found that a lack of RIM1 alpha protein leads to profound deficits in learning and memory, impacting mice with symptoms similar to schizophrenia. The discovery offers insights into the molecular events underlying learning and memory processes.
Researchers found that brain cells recycle synaptic vesicles rapidly through a 'kiss-and-run' process, allowing for efficient communication. This process enables small nerve terminals to get full mileage from their limited set of vesicles, supporting rapid neurotransmitter release.
Researchers develop technique to visualize individual vesicles after release, discovering three modes of recycling: kiss-and-run, compensatory and stranded. The study reveals the rate of synaptic vesicle recycling determines information transmission in nerve cells.
Researchers found that newly made vesicles immediately head to the cell membrane, bypassing older vesicles, which could have implications for diseases like diabetes. The study sheds light on the processing of vesicles in secretory cells and their role in secretion.
A study found increased transmission of SNAP-25/DdeI variant in Irish ADHD trios, suggesting a genetic link between the SNAP gene and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential of SNAP gene variants as biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. James Henry studies the electrical activity of nerve cells to understand how pain is transmitted to the brain. He hopes to establish collaborations among pain researchers and medical professionals to improve treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have made significant progress in understanding the function of two proteins involved in neurotransmitter release. The study found that RIM1a is essential for long-term plasticity, a process critical for learning and memory. This breakthrough has broad implications for the development of dr...
Researchers have discovered that the compound C75 profoundly suppresses appetite by altering brain messengers in mice. This effect could lead to new ways to intervene in obesity-related diseases.
Researchers have discovered that NSF, a universal protein involved in cellular fusion and secretion, controls the speed of neurotransmitter release. Inhibiting NSF function delays transmitter release, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms governing synaptic communication.