Research on how the brain is built and how it governs body and behavior. Covers neural circuits, sleep, sensory systems, brain structure, and the brain-body connection.
The Simons Foundation is launching a $250 million initiative to fund bold, transformational neuroscience research over the next 10 years. The foundation aims to support cross-disciplinary collaborations that address fundamental questions about brain function, with an emphasis on innovative ideas and junior investigators.
A research team developed a vaccine targeting synthetic opioid fentanyl to block its entry into the brain, preventing fatal effects. The breakthrough could have major implications for treating Opioid Use Disorder, with potential relapse prevention capabilities.
Researchers from Aarhus University found that seal pups can distinguish and react differently to various rhythms. This study provides a significant step forward in understanding human musicality and language development.
The study aims to assess the effectiveness of recombinant Factor VIIa (rFVIIa) in decreasing bleeding in the brain of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). ICH is a deadly stroke type with no effective treatment, and this trial seeks to improve outcomes.
Researchers identified Spns2, an S1P transporter, as a novel drug target for Multiple Sclerosis treatment. Targeting this protein may improve safety profiles and reduce side effects associated with current therapies.
Researchers found drastic differences in microglia marker Iba1 and factors influencing Sirt1 levels and activity between elder groups. Preserving microglia and Sirt1 functional efficiency is crucial for longevity.
Research conducted at Linköping University found that screening for atrial fibrillation in older people could increase the chance of preventing stroke while saving money for healthcare systems. The study, based on data from the STROKESTOP clinical trial, suggests that screening can be a cost-effective intervention.
Researchers used monoclonal antibodies to suppress the immune system in mice, tracking human neural stem cell survival using luciferase. The study reveals that monoclonal antibody-mediated immunosuppression enabled long-term survival of transplanted human neural stem cells in mouse brains for at least six to eight months.
Researchers have discovered two novel drugs that can block the growth and shrink the size of schwannoma tumors, a type of nerve sheath tumor found in the nervous system. The treatment works by inhibiting the Hippo signaling pathway, which is dysregulated in multiple types of cancer.
A new study from Aarhus University found that breathing impacts our emotions, attention, and how we process the outside world. Brain rhythms are closely tied to the rhythm of breathing, making us more sensitive to the outside world when breathing in.
Researchers found age-related changes in the balance of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters in the prefrontal cortex during adolescence. This study provides first-ever evidence of plasticity in the frontal cortex during this critical developmental period.
Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute suggest that Covid-19 patients in comas may enter a protective hibernation state to shield cells from oxygen scarcity. This hypothesis is supported by observations of cardiac arrest patients treated with hypothermia and the painted turtle, which also enters a similar state during prolonged anoxia.
Researchers propose that delayed recoveries in COVID-19 patients may be due to a protective response from their brains, similar to those seen in animals exposed to extreme conditions. This theory could lead to new approaches for ICU sedation and recovery from disorders of consciousness.
Researchers have developed a new gene therapy that selectively targets overactive brain cells, reducing excitability and suppressing seizures in mice. The treatment shows promise for treating neurological disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and pain disorders.
Researchers found elevated C4A levels in first-episode psychosis patients who later developed schizophrenia, correlating with increased IL-1beta and synapse density. This suggests a link between inflammation and genetic risk variants in schizophrenia.
A study found that young adults who drink moderate to heavy amounts of alcohol have a higher risk of stroke than those who drink low amounts or no alcohol. The risk increases with the number of years of drinking.
A new study found that only 12% of middle-aged adults are willing to participate in dementia prevention drug trials, citing concerns over the risks involved. The study suggests prioritizing those with a family history or perceived personal risk for dementia and communicating about trial safety could increase participation.
CU Anschutz researchers found changes in myelination during learning, altering neuronal communication speed. These changes could lead to better treatment for neurological injuries and disorders like multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Volpp's research on behavioral economics and health incentives has significantly advanced understanding of cardiovascular outcomes, leading to changes in benefit design and program offerings. He is also the founder of Penn Center for Health Incentives and Behavioral Economics.
Researchers have identified a class of lipids called SGDGs that decline in the brain with age and may have anti-inflammatory effects. These findings could lead to new therapeutic interventions for age-related neurological diseases. Further research will be needed to explore the role of SGDGs in human neuroinflammation.
In the ARROS-1 trial, 48% of patients achieved partial responses to NVL-520, with responses seen across all dose levels and in heavily pre-treated patients. The treatment also showed promise for brain metastases, with three out of three patients experiencing measurable response or no emergence of new metastases.
Researchers will map developing brains, identifying cell types, activities, and locations as they differentiate during development and change throughout childhood and adolescence. The project aims to learn more about normal, healthy brain development and better understand how diseases like autism, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's emerge.
A new study published in NEJM Evidence found that crossword puzzle training significantly improved cognitive function and daily activities, reducing brain shrinkage in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. The findings suggest that engaging with familiar activities like crossword puzzles may be more effective than computerized co...
The American Heart Association is launching a two-year initiative to expand and enhance post-acute stroke care across Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota. The project aims to maximize recovery of function lost during a stroke, reduce risk of secondary effects, and extend high-quality guideline-directed care for all patients.
A Tel Aviv University study shows that pressure chamber therapy can improve social skills and reduce neuroinflammation in the autistic brain. The treatment, which involves high-pressure chambers with oxygen enrichment, was found to increase blood and oxygen supply to the brain, leading to improved brain function and social behavior.
A global study of over 28,000 people found that lowering blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of dementia. The researchers analyzed five double-blind placebo-controlled trials and discovered a broad linear relationship between blood pressure reduction and lower dementia risk.
A new study by Université Laval researchers has identified a link between insulin receptors in brain microvessels and Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest that drugs targeting these receptors could be effective in treating the condition, expanding the range of potential treatments.
A Cornell University researcher is using optical microscopy and other tools to map the brain's neural response to psychedelics. The study aims to develop fast-acting antidepressants and treatments for substance-use disorders and cluster headaches.
A novel algorithm uses near-infrared spectroscopy to estimate intracranial pressure (ICP) based on hemoglobin levels. The research validates the accuracy of this method using invasive ICP data.
Trinidadian killifish exhibit larger brain size in high-competition environments, increasing their ability to forage and survive. The study provides experimental evidence that brain size is an adaptive trait in dense populations.
A new stem cell study provides insight into how neurons from individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) respond to stress hormones. The research found that these cells are hypersensitive to the stress hormone hydrocortisone, which could help explain why some people develop PTSD after trauma exposure.
A team of researchers has identified specific neurons in the amygdala that drive mice to eat fatty or sugary foods, even when not hungry. Switching off these neurons reduced overeating and protected against obesity, while also boosting physical activity and improving metabolic health.
Researchers found lower serum TDP-43 levels in patients with C9orf72 repeat expansion or motoneuron disease, distinguishing them from other FTD subtypes. This study suggests TDP-43 as a potential biomarker for diagnosing specific FTD subtypes, enabling patient-specific interventions.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new tool to measure proteins in brain cells, revealing how brain activity remodels the physical structure of neurons. The study found that certain proteins related to DNA packaging play a key role in gene expression changes after neural activity.
A new study by University of Essex researcher Constantina Maltezou-Papastylianou found that older adults are less accurate than younger adults in detecting emotions from speech. This decline is associated with natural changes in the brain as we age, affecting understanding and interpretation of emotional cues.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin discovered that quantum computation may be used by the human brain, correlating with short-term memory performance and conscious awareness. This finding could enhance our understanding of brain functions and potentially lead to innovative technologies.
A University of Exeter graduate has discovered a new, animal-free method to create human neuron-like cells for studying brain development. The breakthrough could lead to better treatments for brain disorders and improve human quality of life.
Scientists at OHSU have identified synaptotagmin-3 (SYT3) as a crucial protein for replenishing neurotransmitters between neurons. This discovery sheds new light on the underlying causes of neurological disorders such as epilepsy and autism, and may lead to the development of gene therapies or pharmaceutical approaches targeting SYT3.
Researchers at Princeton University found that mice who displayed defensive behaviors after a stressful event were more resilient. They also discovered that activating dopamine while fighting back reinforced resilience, a finding that could potentially inform strategies for building human resilience.
A new system has been developed to deliver ultrasound stimulation to the brain in awake, naturally behaving mice, allowing researchers to evaluate its effects on sleep and working memory. This advance will help scientists test different ultrasound treatment protocols in mouse models of diverse neurological conditions.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that sedating patients after cardiac arrest can improve their chances of survival and regaining normal brain function. The study, conducted in mice, showed that sedatives like propofol and dexmedetomidine improved survival rates compared to those who received no sedation.
Researchers identified a kinase molecule that directs microglia activity, potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and MS. The molecule, called spleen tyrosine kinase, targets plaque buildup and debris accumulation in the brain.
Researchers at UCalgary have shown that the antibiotic D-Cycloserine (DCS) increases the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for people with major depressive disorder. The combination treatment showed significant benefits, including improved depressive symptoms and anxiety levels.
Researchers found that literacy has no effect on auditory processing of speech, contradicting previous studies. However, literate individuals showed improved functional connectivity between brain areas responsible for handwriting and speech sound processing.
A team from UNIGE and EPFL discovered that too much or too little motivation can blur sensory information and affect decision-making. In a state of hyper-motivation, rodents performed poorly, while moderate motivation led to optimal choice. These results open up new perspectives in learning methods.
Conscious perception of sound generates specific neuronal assemblies in the brain, differing from spontaneous brain activity. Under anesthesia, similar assemblies are present but lack sound-specificity, highlighting the importance of cortical creativity in sensory processing.
Researchers created a mouse model that demonstrates how RNA splicing defects contribute to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. The findings show that dysfunctional U1 snRNP leads to excitatory toxicity and accelerates cognitive decline, opening new avenues for treatment.
Researchers studying fruit flies found that brain neurons adapt to help the flies stay awake despite tiredness in dangerous situations, and fall asleep after an intense day. Time-restricted feeding also improved sleep quality in the flies, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for humans.
Researchers successfully taught human and mouse neurons to play the video game Pong in real-time, showcasing their ability to exhibit sentience and adapt to a changing environment. The study's findings have potential applications in disease modeling, drug discoveries, and expanding our understanding of brain function.
Developing a new technology for preventing catheter obstructions in patients with hydrocephaly has been successfully demonstrated in a European project. Concentrating ultrasound waves can detach materials from the inside of shunts implanted in the brains of patients, enabling preventive cleaning without affecting other areas.
Researchers at UCSF discovered a small molecule called ISRIB that can reverse the neural and cognitive effects of concussion in mice, weeks after an injury occurred. The drug blocks the integrated stress response, which became chronically activated in damaged neurons, restoring normal spine dynamics and cognitive function.
Researchers have developed a novel, non-invasive way to measure blood flow to the brains of newborn children at the bedside. This method uses real-time ultrasound color flow technique and 3D sampling to capture flow in a completely painless and safe manner.
Researchers at UT Austin developed a stable EEG electrode that can be worn for up to four weeks without maintenance, enabling long-term monitoring of brain activity. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize non-invasive brain-computer interfaces and improve treatment outcomes for stroke patients.
A new CAPSTONE study aims to identify inflammatory biomarkers associated with positive and poor outcomes in patients after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) strokes. By analyzing patient blood and plasma samples, researchers hope to develop targeted treatments to prevent long-term brain degeneration.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a biosensing technology to detect amyloid β build-up in the brain from biomarkers in blood samples. The Digital ICA TM technology can detect Aβ-binding exosomes in mice, increasing with age and disease progression.
Researchers found that administering nitric oxide to preterm mice after birth can reverse symptoms of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, including sensory and cognitive disorders. A clinical trial is now underway to test this treatment in human preterm infants.
The CMU Array, a new microelectrode array, offers customized treatments for neurological disorders by allowing for three-dimensional sampling and ultra-high-density configurations. This technology has the potential to transform how doctors treat conditions like epilepsy and limb function loss.
Astrocytes play a crucial role in regulating the response to drug cues, acting as brakes on neuronal communication. By slowing down overactive communication, astrocytes can reduce the drive to seek drugs and prevent relapse.
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati found that low levels of soluble amyloid-beta protein in the brain, rather than its buildup into plaques, are associated with cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Patients with high levels of soluble amyloid-beta showed improved cognitive outcomes, contradicting previous theories.
Researchers at Boston University have found a way to manipulate emotional memories using optogenetics, allowing them to rewrite and reduce the potency of negative memories. The study reveals that positive and negative memories are stored in distinct regions of the brain and communicate through different pathways.