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Brain immunity may undergo a major midlife overhaul

A study found that brain immune cells undergo substantial remodeling in midlife, leading to chronic neuroinflammation and potential dementia risk. The research used advanced single-cell analysis techniques to analyze postmortem hippocampal tissue from 40 healthy adults.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2026

How multiple sclerosis harms a brain long before symptoms appear

Scientists analyzed thousands of proteins in blood samples to understand when multiple sclerosis attacks the myelin sheath and nerve fibers. Researchers identified a protein called IL-3, which plays a key role in this early phase of damage.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 20, 2025

Boosting the neuroglia as a therapeutic strategy for brain disorders

Research reveals neuroglia play active role in brain function, driving disease progression through atrophy and functional decline. Therapeutic strategies targeting neuroglial signaling may prevent damage following brain injury or protect against neurodegenerative processes.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalBrain Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 26, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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Aerobic exercise: a powerful ally in the fight against Alzheimer’s

Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to significantly reduce disease markers associated with Alzheimer's, protecting healthy brain cells and restoring balance in the aging brain. The study highlights the potential for aerobic exercise to serve as a cornerstone in preventive strategies for Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBrain Research·TypeObservational study·DateJan 15, 2025

Study identifies natural compound to treat MS, cancers

Scientists have discovered a natural compound called sulfuretin that can halt the progression of certain forms of cancer and demyelinating conditions like multiple sclerosis. The study found that sulfuretin blocks the activity of an enzyme involved in these diseases, suggesting its potential as a treatment.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2024
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New study uncovers key mechanisms responsible for the transformation of adult progenitors into brain tumors

A new study from the CUNY Graduate Center uncovers key mechanisms responsible for the transformation of adult progenitor cells into brain tumors. Researchers found that a specific combination of genetic mutations and growth factor overproduction drives this transformation, highlighting the importance of epigenetic changes in glioma dev...

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNeoplasia·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2024

Alzheimer’s disease: It’s not only neurons

Glial cells play a significant role in Alzheimer's disease, producing amyloid beta and contributing to plaque formation. Researchers discovered that knocking out BACE1 enzyme in oligodendrocytes reduced plaque formation by 30%, opening up new avenues for therapies.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2024

Could this new drug turn back the clock on multiple sclerosis?

Researchers have developed a new therapy called PIPE-307 that targets an elusive receptor on certain cells in the brain, prompting them to mature into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes. This could potentially reverse damage caused by multiple sclerosis, leading to improved movement, balance, and vision.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2024
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Older brain cells linger unexpectedly before their death

Researchers discovered that mature oligodendrocytes, critical for brain function, can survive for up to 45 days after a fatal trauma, defying the classical programmed cell-death pathway. This finding opens new avenues for understanding and potentially preventing damage caused by aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJNeurosci·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

Common household chemicals pose new threat to brain health

Researchers from Case Western Reserve University found that common household chemicals harm oligodendrocytes, specialized cells that generate protective insulation around nerve cells. This discovery suggests a previously unrecognized risk factor for neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorders.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMar 25, 2024

Interferon-gamma drives brain pathology in a mouse model of multiple system atrophy

In a mouse model of multiple system atrophy, alpha-synuclein overexpression induces neuroinflammation, demyelination, and neurodegeneration. IFNγ produced by infiltrating CD4+ T-cells mediates these changes. The study suggests that IFNγ is a potential future disease-modifying therapeutic target.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalActa Neuropathologica Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2024

BCAS1 defines a heterogeneous cell population in diffuse glioma patients

Researchers have uncovered the molecular and ultrastructural features of BCAS1+ cells in diffuse gliomas, highlighting their proliferative capacity and distribution. The study provides a comprehensive characterization of the BCAS1+ cell population within diffuse gliomas, shedding light on its role in tumor malignancy.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeObservational study·DateJan 31, 2024
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Firing nerve fibers in the brain are supplied with energy on demand

A team of neuroscientists has discovered that oligodendrocytes, myelin-forming cells, accelerate glucose consumption to deliver energy-rich molecules to rapidly firing axons. This communication is mediated by potassium signals and maintains axonal health.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2024

Study reveals function of little-understood synapse in the brain

Researchers discovered that a little-understood synapse in the brain plays a pivotal role in producing myelin, the protective sheath around nerve cells. This finding could lead to new therapies for multiple sclerosis, neurodegenerative conditions and brain cancer.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2024

Neurodegeneration in myelin disease: no myelin is better than bad myelin

Researchers found an inverse relationship between axon loss and demyelination, suggesting that 'bad' myelin can be more damaging than its absence. This study identifies potential therapeutic targets for diseases associated with myelin defects and inflammation in the nervous system.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

Human vs machine

A Pitt Professor believes oligodendrocytes, the nerve insulating cells, hold the solution to BCI's nagging problem. By understanding and preserving these cells, researchers aim to improve BCI's performance and expand its applications beyond paralysis.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 2, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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New nerve insights could someday help heal certain types of blindness and paralysis

A team of researchers found that a small population of nerve cells exists in everyone that could be coaxed to regrow, potentially restoring sight and movement. The discovery provides new insights into how axons grow and could lead to effective therapies for blindness, paralysis, and other disorders caused by nerve damage.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalDevelopment·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

A special omega-3 fatty acid lipid will change how we look at the developing and ageing brain, Duke-NUS researchers find

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School have identified a special transporter protein that regulates the formation of myelin sheaths in the brain, which protect nerves from damage. The study suggests that omega-3 fatty acid lipids play a crucial role in directing oligodendrocyte development, a process critical for brain myelination.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 4, 2023

Multiple sclerosis: a new tool to reduce clinical failure

Researchers developed a novel tool to monitor recovery after CNS demyelination, enabling early testing of pro-remyelinating strategies. This new approach shows promising results in reducing clinical failure and advancing therapeutic success for multiple sclerosis.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalBrain·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2023
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Researchers discover how some brain cells transfer material to neurons in mice

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...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 17, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Rethinking how cancer cells evade targeted therapy

UCSF researchers identified glioma's cellular source of recurrent disease, finding cells shift to mesenchymal, radiation-resistant phenotype in response to standard therapy. Paracrine signals from tumor microenvironment drive this transition through AP1 pathway, leading to therapy resistance and tumor recurrence.

SourceUniversity of California San Francisco Medical Center·JournalNature Cancer·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2022

Scientists capture detailed snapshots of mouse brain cells nibbling on neurons

Researchers have discovered that oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) play a crucial role in synaptic pruning, cleaning up unwanted connections between neurons. By analyzing a massive dataset of 3D brain cell structures, the team found OPCs digesting parts of neighboring neurons.

SourceAllen Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 28, 2022

The unexpected cells helping to shape young brains

Research reveals that oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) contribute to the pruning process, helping shape a healthy brain during early development. OPCs actively engulf synapses, eliminating connections that are no longer needed, and play an intermediary role between external experiences and brain activity.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateSep 28, 2022

Fish to help in search for MS drugs

Researchers replaced zebrafish GPR17 receptor gene with human version to study myelin repair in multiple sclerosis. Testing substances in modified fish larvae may lead to quicker and more successful human trials.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateSep 20, 2022

Researchers identify molecular mechanisms leading to zika-associated microcephaly

The study proposes a model to understand the complications caused by zika virus infection during pregnancy. The researchers found that zika virus alters protein expression in neural cells, affecting energy production and RNA metabolism, which can lead to defective myelination and microcephaly.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Neurobiology·DateSep 19, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Brain’s support cells may hold key to new Huntington’s treatments

A new study identifies how the suppression of a specific transcription gene triggers changes that impair oligodendrocyte function in Huntington's disease. The researchers believe replacing or fixing defective glia cells may prove a far easier proposition than replenishing neurons lost in the disease.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell Reports·DateAug 30, 2022

Blood adenosine levels as a potential biomarker of white matter disease in a selected population of very low birth weight premature infants

A study found that high blood adenosine levels at 15 days of life correlated with white matter lesions and brain injury in very low birth weight premature infants. Adenosine may play a role in oligodendrocyte maturation and neuronal development, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for complications of prematurity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pediatric Reviews·DateMay 13, 2022
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Brain cell insight could lead to new treatments for neurological-based diseases

Researchers identified key differences in metabolic processes between brain and spinal cord oligodendrocytes, which could lead to new therapeutic treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. The study also found that targeting a specific cell protein may enhance cholesterol and myelin production.

SourceRutgers University·JournalCell Reports·TypeObservational study·DateMar 11, 2022

New genetic clues on multiple sclerosis risk

A study published in Neuron suggests that oligodendrocytes and immune cells may play a crucial role in multiple sclerosis (MS) development. The research found that genetic mutations near immune genes can activate nearby genes in oligodendrocytes, potentially leading to misfunction and MS risk.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2022

Anxiety and PTSD linked to increased myelin in brain's gray matter

Researchers found increased myelination in areas associated with emotions and memory in individuals with anxiety and PTSD, correlating with specific symptoms. This study provides a possible explanation for individual variation in stress response and may lead to targeted treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022

Signaling from neighboring cells provides power boost within axons

A recent NIH study identifies oligodendrocytes as a key player in maintaining energy levels within axons, which are essential for long-distance communication. The research discovered that oligodendrocytes release an enzyme called SIRT2, which increases mitochondrial activity and provides a local power boost to axons.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2021

Overcoming obstacles to promote repair in multiple sclerosis

A new study suggests that existing drugs for multiple sclerosis may not be effective due to toxic blood leaks in the brain. Researchers have identified a promising alternative treatment option that could improve myelin repair, even in the presence of these harmful elements.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalBrain·DateAug 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Researchers link neurodegenerative disease protein to defective cholesterol metabolism

A recent study discovered that brain cells cannot maintain the myelin sheath in the absence of the TDP-43 protein. Restoring cholesterol levels has been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases associated with TDP-43. The research found that oligodendrocytes, responsible for producing myelin, have def...

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Study helps to deeper understanding of brain dysfunctions in patients with schizophrenia

A study using protein mapping reveals that abnormal glutamate levels in the brains of schizophrenic patients can lead to oxidative stress and apoptosis in neurons, while oligodendrocytes display different responses. This knowledge may contribute to the development of more targeted treatments for schizophrenia.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalEuropean Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience·DateJun 7, 2021

How HIV infection shrinks the brain's white matter

Researchers found that HIV prevents oligodendrocytes from maturing, reducing myelin production. The virus secretes glutamate, which activates the integrated stress response, further disrupting cell development.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalGlia·DateJun 2, 2021

Researchers discover oligodendrocyte loss and subtype alteration in CTE brains

A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers has identified significant alterations in white matter, including loss of oligodendrocytes and changes to oligodendroglial subtypes, in CTE brains. These findings may lead to new treatments for the progressive brain disease associated with repetitive head trauma.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateMay 24, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Brain cell network supplies neurons with energy

Oligodendrocytes form a key part of the brain's energy supply network, working alongside astrocytes to transport energy-rich compounds to synapses. Without this network, neurons can't communicate effectively.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 19, 2021

Acid reflux drug could help newborn babies recover from brain injury, study suggests

Researchers discovered a potential way to prevent long-lasting brain damage in newborn children by targeting the histamine H2 receptor. A protein known as the histamine H2 receptor inhibits the formation of mature oligodendrocytes, leading to improved recovery from hypoxia-ischemia in mice treated with cimetidine.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 29, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

CU researchers publish study on nerve cell repair in Nature Neuroscience

Researchers at CU School of Medicine have discovered that precise motor learning stimulates cellular processes to improve recovery after nerve cell damage. The study found that mature oligodendrocytes can contribute to repairing the nervous system by generating new myelin sheaths.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 18, 2020

New compound promotes healing of myelin in nervous system disorders

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a compound that successfully promotes rebuilding of damaged nerve cell protective sheath, reversing MS symptoms. The discovery may lead to clinical trials in humans with MS or other neurodegenerative conditions.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalGlia·DateSep 6, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.