Central Nervous System
Articles tagged with Central Nervous System
Ultrasound has potential to alter how the brain responds to pain
Brain Health honors J. Craig Venter (1946–2026), the genomicist whose earliest breakthroughs began at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
J. Craig Venter's pioneering work in expressed sequence tags revolutionized brain-expressed genes identification, while his synthetic cells paved the way for synthetic biology as a working discipline. His legacy has reshaped our understanding of genomes and their functions.
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.
Two NYU Faculty Elected to National Academy of Sciences
Andrea H. Brand, a NYU Grossman School of Medicine professor, was elected for her research on nervous system development and gene regulation. Eero P. Simoncelli, a Center for Neural Science director, was recognized for his work on brain representation and sensory processing in humans and machines.
Central nervous system a key player in diabetes pain
More than 50% of people with diabetes develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which causes painful sensations like burning, tingling, or shooting pains. The brain and spinal cord can also contribute to pain, as their pain-blocking systems are less effective in people with diabetes.
A USC team is targeting the spinal cord to solve paralysis’ most overlooked problem
A USC team has created a neuroprosthetic device that can restore coordinated bladder control in small animal models, proof of concept for a future treatment that could transform lives after spinal cord injuries. The device targets the dorsolateral funiculus region of the spinal cord to mimic the natural signals that trigger the need to...
Brain health shaped by lifetime mental, physical, environmental and lifestyle factors
Research highlights how everyday factors from early life through adulthood influence brain health and affect the risk of developing cognitive decline, dementia or stroke. Healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical activity, healthy sleep habits, and balanced eating patterns can support brain development and healthy aging.
Half of older patients with dementia remain on psychotropic drugs a year after starting on them
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that half of older patients with dementia remain on psychotropic drugs a year after starting them. The medications, including antipsychotics and benzodiazepines, are often prescribed in acute and post-acute settings such as emergency rooms and skilled nursing facilities. This raises c...
Individual Brain Charting: new data advances high-resolution mapping of human cognition
The Individual Brain Charting project has released its fifth update with a new set of cognitive tasks, expanding the dataset to 40 hours of scanned data per participant. This provides an exceptionally rich resource for studying individual variability in brain organisation and understanding brain function.
University of Houston psychologist reveals how distraction breaks memory
Researchers at the University of Houston found that distraction disrupts memory consolidation primarily due to demands on central executive processing. To improve short-term memory, focus attention on a task for a few seconds before switching, and avoid multitasking.
Scientists engineer a tool to “edit” brain circuits and enhance memory
Researchers develop molecular tool called SynTrogo, which enables selective dismantling of synaptic connections in brain circuits. By harnessing astrocytes, the system reduces synapse number while strengthening remaining connections, leading to enhanced long-term potentiation and improved memory.
Softens inside the body? The emergence of ‘transformation electrodes’
A Korean research team developed a spinal cord stimulator that softens upon contact with bodily fluids, mimicking surrounding nerve tissue. The device uses liquid metal and variable stiffness structures to achieve stable signal transmission and reduced costs.
Tulane University study reveals how the brain fine-tunes fear as threats fade
A Tulane University study reveals how the brain regulates defensive behavior and fine-tunes fear responses as perceived threats diminish. Researchers identified distinct roles for neurons in the central amygdala, which help determine whether an animal responds with intense escape behavior or freezing.
The brain’s ability to grasp the “gist” of a visual scene begins earlier than expected
A research team led by LEE Doyun and KIM Yee-Joon found that the primary visual cortex encodes motion summaries and variability before higher brain regions transform them into category signals. This process, known as ensemble perception, allows the brain to capture the overall structure of a scene at a glance.
Insilico Medicine and Tenacia Biotechnology expand AI-driven CNS collaboration with deal Value up to US $94.75 million
The companies are leveraging generative AI to develop innovative candidates for challenging neurological diseases, aiming to provide a broader range of therapeutic options. Insilico's Pharma.AI platform and Tenacia's expertise will continue to generate innovative solutions with strong translational potential.
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.
Discovering the “brain fingerprints” of chronic pain
A team of researchers has developed a method to decode fluctuations in spontaneous pain intensity in individuals with chronic pain using extensively sampled functional MRI data. The study found that neural patterns underlying pain differ markedly between individuals, highlighting the importance of individualized brain-based biomarkers.
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.
Houston Methodist research reveals how the eyes may be a window into early Alzheimer’s detection
A new study from Houston Methodist suggests that the outer area of the retina may hold clues to early Alzheimer's detection, potentially allowing for non-invasive diagnosis and monitoring. Researchers found that changes in retinal cells and blood vessels can indicate the onset of AD years before symptoms appear.
Cancer Cell publication details development of cancer-induced cachexia and anorexia
Cancer cell researchers at the University of Oklahoma have developed a novel 'triangle regulation theory' that explains the development of cancer-induced cachexia and anorexia. The theory reveals how cancer cells recruit immune cells to trigger excess production of growth factor 15, leading to muscle wasting and loss of appetite.
AI-Powered R&D Acceleration: Insilico Medicine and CMS announce multiple collaborations in central nervous system and autoimmune diseases
Insilico Medicine and CMS announce multiple collaborations on AI-empowered drug discovery in central nervous system and autoimmune diseases. The partnerships aim to accelerate research, development, and translation of high-potential innovative therapies, leveraging complementary strengths across the entire value chain.
Opening a new window on the brainstem, AI algorithm enables tracking of its vital white matter pathways
A new software tool developed by MIT researchers can reliably and finely resolve eight distinct nerve bundles in live diffusion MRI scans, shedding light on neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The BrainStem Bundle Tool (BSBT) reveals distinct patterns of structural changes in patients with these conditions.
BBB-crossing ionizable upconversion nanoparticles for synergistic therapy of carbapenem-resistant central nervous system infection
Researchers developed a novel nanoparticle system to cross the BBB, target infection sites, and release antibacterial agents locally. This strategy effectively disrupts biofilms, eliminates drug-resistant bacteria, and reduces neuroinflammation.
No brain, no problem: What robots can learn from sea stars
Researchers at USC's Kanso Bioinspired Motion Lab discovered that sea stars' tube feet respond independently to changing loads, enabling local control strategy. This decentralized approach can optimize robot locomotion and adapt to environmental changes.
Lab-grown organoids reveal how glioblastoma outsmarts treatment
Researchers developed miniature 3D tumor organoid models that closely mimic the human brain, revealing how glioblastoma interacts with surrounding brain cells and immune system. The models identified PTPRZ1 as a key regulator of tumor behavior, which helps determine its aggressiveness.
New research connects heart attacks to brain, nervous and immune systems
Researchers have uncovered a new understanding of how cardiac events are interconnected with the brain and nervous/immune systems. They found that sensory neurons in the vagus nerve detect injury and transfer signals to dedicated brain structures, leading to activation of the immune system.
Prescribing patterns of potentially inappropriate central nervous system-active medications in older adults
A study found that older adults are prescribed potentially inappropriate central nervous system-active medications despite guidelines. Patients with cognitive impairment were more likely to receive these medications than those with normal cognition. The study highlights the need for better medication management in older adults.
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.
From fungi to brain cells: one scientist's winding path reveals how epigenomics shapes neural destiny
Dr. Maria Margarita Behrens' work deciphers the molecular signatures defining every human brain cell type, shedding light on neural development and psychiatric disorders. Her single-cell epigenomic atlases will enable researchers to target specific cell types with unprecedented precision.
To flexibly organize thought, the brain makes use of space
Researchers tested Spatial Computing theory by examining neural activity and brain wave patterns in animals performing working memory and categorization tasks. The findings support the theory's predictions, including that alpha/beta waves represent task controls and rules, while spiking activity carries sensory information.
A newly discovered neural pathway links emotional stimuli to wakefulness
A newly discovered neural pathway connects the amygdala with arousal centers in mice, revealing a key mechanism for emotional regulation of sleep-wake cycles. This finding highlights potential therapeutic targets for stress-related insomnia and mood disorders.
Neuroscience research reveals synapse functions, relationships in detail
Research from Colorado State University sheds light on the regulation of chemical balance in the brain, focusing on GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps calm brain activity. The study provides insights into how neurons maintain effective communication with each other, even when GABA is produced far from synapses.
Older age, chronic kidney disease and cerebrovascular disease linked with increased risk for paralysis and death after West Nile virus infection
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that older adults with chronic kidney disease or cerebrovascular disease are at double the risk for developing neuroinvasive West Nile virus infection, which can lead to paralysis and death. The study identified several risk factors, including male sex, immune suppressants, and multiple scle...
Pitt and UPMC study finds epigenetic signature of pediatric traumatic brain injury, paves way for precision recovery tools
Researchers at Pitt and UPMC Children's Hospital discovered a biomarker of complicated pediatric traumatic brain injury, which may serve as dynamic indicators of post-injury recovery. The study found that children with TBI had a different epigenetic profile compared to those with orthopaedic injuries.
Study reveals new ways the brain regulates communication between neurons
Researchers found that increased activity of a specific protein in the brain can alter learning processes associated with rewards. This discovery may lead to better treatments for conditions like addiction and depression.
Prefrontal cortex reaches back into the brain to shape how other regions function
Researchers found that the prefrontal cortex sends customized signals to visual and motor regions, influencing their activity based on arousal levels and movement. The study reveals distinct roles of prefrontal subregions in shaping visual processing, with one region enhancing stimuli detection and another dampening irrelevant stimuli.
Scientists uncover new on-switch for pain signaling pathway that could lead to safer treatment and relief
Researchers at Tulane University discovered a new nerve cell signaling mechanism that can turn on pain signaling after injury, potentially leading to safer treatments. The discovery of enzyme vertebrate lonesome kinase (VLK) offers a new way to influence cell behavior and could simplify drug development.
Brain waves’ analog organization of cortex enables cognition and consciousness, MIT professor proposes at SfN
According to Miller, brain waves sculpt the flow of information in the cortex, enabling volitional control of thought. The cortex organizes itself through analog computation, leading to consciousness as a unified awareness of thought and experience.
Research study suggests speaking more languages might keep you younger
A recent study found that multilingual individuals experience slower biobehavioral aging compared to monolinguals. The study analyzed data from 86,149 participants across Europe and showed that multilingualism is associated with a lower risk of accelerated aging.
Repurposed antibiotic shows promise against Central Nervous System Tuberculosis in NUS Medicine study
Researchers have demonstrated that doxycycline can improve survival rates and neurological outcomes in children with Central Nervous System Tuberculosis. The study found that treating CNS-TB laboratory models with doxycycline alongside standard TB drugs suppressed inflammation, preserved brain tissue, and improved vascular integrity.
After distractions, rotating brain waves may help thought circle back to the task
Researchers found that a rotating brain wave helps the cortex recover its computational path after a distraction, improving performance in visual working memory tasks. Longer time intervals between distractions also aid recovery.
A new study reveals the connection between the liver and brain in the context of metabolic liver disease
A multidisciplinary research team discovered that liver alterations associated with metabolic dysfunction can cause cognitive and neurological impairments. The effects were reversed by a therapy targeting the liver, establishing a 'liver-brain axis'. This finding opens up new therapeutic avenues for treating metabolic liver disease.
Researchers identify perineural pathway that fuels HIV persistence despite treatment
A groundbreaking study in The American Journal of Pathology reveals a perineural pathway that enables HIV-infected immune cells to redistribute throughout the body, sustaining inflammation. The findings highlight the importance of the connection between the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system in immunity.
Congratulations to Prof. Boaz Ben-David of the School of Psychology and Dr. Yulia Golland of the School of Medicine on winning a BSF-NSF research grant
The researchers are studying how brief, playful social interactions affect brain function and cognitive performance in older adults using advanced brain imaging techniques. They aim to develop simple and inexpensive interventions that can be implemented in clinical settings and in the community.
Graz University of Technology and the University of Regensburg carry out research on the link between leaky blood-brain barrier and depression
Graz University of Technology and the University of Regensburg are conducting research on the interaction of cell types at the blood-brain barrier, with a particular focus on sex-specific differences in depression. The study aims to identify mechanisms contributing to depression and develop targeted therapies.
Creative minds, younger brains: International study shows creative experiences delay brain aging
A large-scale international study found that creative experiences slow brain aging and promote healthier brain function. Creative activities such as music, dance, and video games were linked to 'younger' brain profiles, particularly in regions vulnerable to neurodegeneration.
How the brain splits up vision without you even noticing
The brain divides vision between its two hemispheres to enable seamless perception. Researchers at the Picower Institute found that different frequencies of brain waves are encoded and transferred information from one hemisphere to the other before an object crosses the middle of the field of view.
Researchers reveal how autism-linked mutation triggers PTSD-like fear
A study published in Science Advances reveals that an autism-linked mutation disrupts brain circuits responsible for erasing fear memories, leading to PTSD-like symptoms. By reactivating specific neurons, researchers were able to reverse the behavioral and physiological abnormalities.
Social lifetime experiences have long-lasting effects on mental and brain health
Research found that cumulative exposure to factors like low education, childhood trauma, and financial stress negatively impacts brain structure and function. This has long-lasting effects on mental and brain health, even in healthy aging and dementia prevention.
Mount Sinai Morningside unveils new, state-of-the-art facility for patients who need inpatient rehabilitation
The Mount Sinai Hospital has relocated its inpatient services to a newly renovated space at Mount Sinai Morningside, featuring lifts, larger rooms, and state-of-the-art equipment. The new facility aims to enhance care for patients with various rehabilitative needs, including brain and spinal cord injuries.
Robots offer clues to the impressive robustness of eel locomotion
A team of researchers has developed a mathematical model that integrates sensory feedback to enable eel-like robots to swim and crawl on land. The study shows how multisensory feedback enables eels to adapt their movement patterns after spinal cord injury, providing insights into the evolutionary transition of vertebrates from water to...
Researchers develop novel treatment for central nervous system injury
A new exosome-based therapeutic agent has been developed to treat traumatic CNS injuries, alleviating neuronal apoptosis and restoring glial homeostasis. The treatment, SeNExo, promotes neuronal repair and reduces oxidative damage, showing potent therapeutic benefits in mouse models.
Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study reviews rare form of central nervous system tumors
Researchers evaluated clinical outcomes of endoscopic resection in sellar chondrosarcomas, revealing common symptoms like blurring of vision and headaches. The study also provides recommendations for accurate diagnosis using imaging data and clinical features.
Beijing Tiantan Hospital researchers pioneer one-stage hybrid surgery for brain and spine tumors
Researchers at Beijing Tiantan Hospital developed a one-stage hybrid operation to treat hypervascular CNS tumors, achieving high rates of gross-total removal and improved neurological function. The technique combines embolization and resection in a single procedure, reducing intraoperative bleeding risk and operative time.
Groundbreaking resource simplifies spinal biomechanics for residents and students
The new book Spinal Surgery Biomechanics: Principles for Residents offers a comprehensive exploration of core biomechanical concepts essential for mastering spinal surgical procedures. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing a biomechanical framework that supports surgical planning and patient safety.
Study finds key role for non-neural brain cells in processing vision
Researchers found that astrocytes maintain optimal levels of GABA to enable neural groups to process visual information efficiently. Knocking out Gat3 in mice impaired neuron coordination and reduced ensemble activity, highlighting the importance of astrocytic regulation.
Creatine may help the brain, not just muscles
A research team led by Virginia Tech's Fralin Biomedical Research Institute is working on a technique that uses focused ultrasound to deliver creatine directly to the brain. This method aims to restore normal brain mass in models of creatine deficiency, which can impair brain development and lead to severe cognitive challenges.
Multiscale simulations successfully connect micro- and macro levels of brain activity
Scientists have developed a new multiscale modeling approach that can simulate how microscopic changes affect macroscale brain activity. The framework successfully predicted the effects of anesthesia on synaptic receptors, bridging the gap between molecular and whole-brain levels.
Hideyuki Okano starts new position as president of the ISSCR
Hideyuki Okano has been elected President of the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR), an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in stem cell science. He will champion inclusive excellence, advance discovery, and ensure that the transformative promise of stem cell science benefits the world.