Articles tagged with Central Nervous System
Children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at a higher risk of developing infections, allergies, and other childhood illnesses by age 13. The study found that children of mothers with PCOS were 32% more likely to be admitted to hospital for various health problems.
Researchers developed a technology that uses surviving neurons to restore connection between brain and arm via specific stimulation pulses to the spinal cord. This allowed macaque monkeys with partial arm paralysis to improve precision, force, and range of movement in their arms.
A new model from researchers at the University of Southern California and Lund University suggests that spontaneous movements made by a fetus in the womb are key to getting the body's nervous system 'wired up.' This discovery has implications for treating neuromuscular disorders and designing better robots.
Daily gabapentin treatment restored fine motor functions in mice's upper extremities and continued to show functional improvements even after treatment was stopped. The drug blocks the activity of a protein that hinders re-growth of axons, enabling post-stroke central nervous system repair to progress in a coordinated way.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a method to identify the immune cells involved in autoimmune diseases and identified four new target molecules for personalized treatment of multiple sclerosis. This approach could lead to more precise treatments with fewer side effects, potentially benefiting other autoimmune diseases.
A study by Tokyo University of Science researchers has demonstrated that a computationally-light model can simulate complex brain cell responses, including periodic and quasi-periodic responses. The Izhikevich neuron model was found to be capable of reproducing both types of responses at lower computational cost.
A new study by MIT researchers confirms that a single memory is stored across many connected brain regions, challenging long-held assumptions. The study used advanced imaging techniques to map memory encoding and recall activity in mice, revealing dozens of brain regions involved in memory storage.
Researchers at Institut Pasteur discovered a mechanism that enables infected cells to evade immune responses and infect the brain, leading to life-long persistence of bacteria. This finding has implications for understanding other intracellular pathogens and developing new therapeutic strategies.
A new study published in Nature Communications found that amylin peptide plays a crucial role in regulating social contact-seeking behavior in female mice. The researchers discovered that isolation leads to a decrease in amylin levels, while social reunion increases them.
A Salk Institute team has uncovered a neural network in the brain that connects breathing rhythm with feelings of pain and fear. This discovery could lead to the development of an analgesic that prevents opioid-induced respiratory depression, a major cause of overdose deaths.
Scientists have created a new imaging method that can detect microscopic soft tissue damage in animal spines, which may lead to improved treatments for lower back pain. The technique uses fluorescent molecules to target denatured collagen and produce precise 3D maps of spinal damage.
Researchers have identified that moment-to-moment brain signal variability can reliably predict the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy for patients with social anxiety disorder. This finding suggests that neural variability may be a reliable indicator of individual differences in treatment response, particularly when using ...
A phase II clinical trial has shown that the DNA alkylation drug DM-CHOC-PEN improved survival in adolescent and young adult patients with central nervous system cancers. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no severe toxicities observed, and showed potential for combination with other treatments.
A new study developed a successful approach for identifying proteins in different types of neurons in the brain of a living animal. The technique uses a virus to tag neighboring proteins, allowing researchers to analyze the entire proteome inside living neurons.
Researchers from LMU have identified two RNA-binding proteins that regulate synaptic transmission in distinct ways, controlling mRNA levels and translation. These findings provide insight into the mechanisms of neurological disorders such as epilepsy and autism.
A study published in the journal Pain identifies specialised ion channels involved in transmitting pain signals from the female reproductive tract. The research provides novel findings that could lead to improved treatment options for women experiencing chronic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis and vulvodynia.
Researchers identify SARS-CoV-2's entry route into the central nervous system and report neurological complications of COVID-19 in a narrative review. Potential tissue targets are also identified for future research to understand the neuropathogenesis of coronaviruses.
A team of researchers has characterized the fates of individual phagocytes in the central nervous system, revealing that they can switch between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory phenotypes. This discovery sheds light on the complex role of mononuclear phagocytes in neuroinflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.
A study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology suggests that methylphenidate, an ADHD medication, may be subject to misuse and/or abuse. The study found inconsistent patterns of use among adult users, particularly those aged 25-49 years.
Researchers created a brittle star-like robot that can quickly adapt to physical damage, similar to its biological model. This decentralized control mechanism allows the robot to coordinate and move with remaining arms.
Researchers analyzed cerebrospinal fluid from Ebola survivors and found no viral RNA, but the results may suggest potential for dormant virus transmission. The findings highlight the need for monitoring EVD survivors for neurologic symptoms suggesting relapse in the CNS.
A recent study found that 74% of fentanyl patch prescriptions were not safe due to insufficient prior opioid exposure. The prescribing guidelines for the 50 µg/h dose are often not followed, especially among patients over 65, who are at a higher risk of adverse outcomes.
A teenage girl's excessive codeine use led to a confusional state and loss of memory. Doctors warn that the lack of evidence supporting codeine's benefits in cough remedies makes its risks particularly unnecessary.
Researchers at INRS have discovered a coronavirus protein mutation that slows the spread of the virus in the central nervous system and reduces its neurovirulence. The study sheds light on how persistent coronavirus infections take hold and may help prevent associated neurological diseases.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have discovered a class of compounds that can effectively treat chronic itch without inducing sedation. The new compounds target the kappa opioid receptor, which is associated with pain perception and stress responses.
A study of 1159 males who illicitly used amphetamines found that half reported no impact on sexual functions, while the other half experienced reduced erectile rigidity, enhanced orgasmic intensity, and delayed ejaculation. Amphetamine users were also twice as likely to experience erectile dysfunction compared to matched controls.
A study published in JAMA Neurology found that immunosuppressant MMF treatment significantly reduced relapse rates and improved disability scores in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). The results suggest MMF may be an effective treatment option for preventing attacks and resulting disabilities in these patients.
Researchers explore the link between gut microbiome and autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis, highlighting potential therapeutic targets. The study suggests that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune cell activity and cytokine production, which may impact susceptibility to and treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Researchers investigate gene therapy as a potential treatment to improve viability and regenerative capacity of injured adult retinal ganglion cells. Studies using modified viral vectors introduce genes into injured visual pathway cells, aiming to promote long-distance axon regeneration.
Researchers found that patients with CNSi at diagnosis were nearly three times as likely to have CNSr during treatment, which is associated with poor prognosis. However, CNSi did not appear to impact overall survival, suggesting a need for improved diagnostic tools and treatments.
The Olig family is crucial for controlling differentiation and maturation of oligodendrocytes, motor neurons, and astrocytes in the central nervous system. Accumulating evidence suggests its involvement in various CNS diseases, including brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and gliomas.
The Olig family is involved in regulating neural cell differentiation and affects acute and chronic central nervous system diseases. It also participates in the development of oligodendrocytes, motor neurons, and astrocytes in the central nervous system.
A new study published in Neural Regeneration Research found that subdiaphragmatic vagotomy reduces the intake of sweet-tasting solutions in rats. The research indicates that this procedure eliminates the difference in hedonic perception induced by sweet-tasting solutions compared to distilled water.
Researchers detected a new virus, CyCV-VN, in 4% of patients with central nervous system infections and up to 58% of farm animal fecal samples, raising concerns about animal-to-human transmission
Women with severe pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy should opt for vaginal delivery over caesarean section to avoid increased risk of persistent pain. The study found a significant association between planned or emergency caesarean sections and severe pelvic girdle syndrome six months after delivery.
A study of over 9,600 children in Chile found that 80% had one or more abnormalities associated with prenatal alcohol exposure, with functional neurologic impairment being the most frequent. This highlights the importance of considering prenatal alcohol exposure as a potential risk factor for functional deficits in offspring.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a gene therapy treatment that extends the lives of mice with spinal muscular atrophy by introducing a missing gene into their central nervous systems. This breakthrough offers new hope for treating humans with SMA, potentially providing a cure within 12-18 months.
Researchers examine interaction between Ibudilast, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, and MA, an addictive stimulant, in the first Phase I clinical safety trial. The study aims to determine the effects of Ibudilast on heart rate and blood pressure when combined with relevant doses of MA.
Young house spiders exhibit perfect angles and regular patterns in their webs, but as they age, their webs deteriorate. The research suggests that degeneration of the central nervous system may be behind this decline, providing a model for understanding aging mechanisms in humans.
Researchers at University of Granada analyzed antibody levels in patients with multiple sclerosis and found a statistically significant association between viral infection markers and the condition. Further research is needed to confirm the link.
Researchers discovered how semaphorin proteins guide nerve cell projections with precision, enabling intricate connections in the nervous system. This finding has implications for developing treatment strategies for repairing and regenerating damaged or diseased nerve cells.
Researchers found that adding high-dose cytarabine to methotrexate therapy improved complete remission rates (46%) and overall response rates (69%) in patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma. The combination also resulted in a lower risk of relapse and improved progression-free survival.
French researchers have developed a strategy to promote neuronal regeneration after injury using gene therapy. By blocking the formation of cicatricial tissue, astrocytes can be controlled to promote neuronal survival and trigger axonal growth.
Researchers found fetal short-term memory at 30 weeks through habituation tests, where fetuses adapt to stimuli. The study also showed that 34- and 36-week-old fetuses can store information and retrieve it weeks later, providing insights into normal fetal development.
Scientists studying a mysterious neurological affliction in cats discovered a key ability of the central nervous system to repair itself. Recovery was achieved through remyelination, where previously demyelinated axons became restored with thin but functional myelin sheaths.
Canada-U.S. biophysicists develop a novel method to detect movement of single proteins controlling ion exchange between cells and environment. The new technique allows scientists to measure one single ion channel at a time and investigate how different parts inside the ion channels communicate.
Central nervous system infections are a rare but significant predictor of death among heart transplant recipients. According to a study of 315 patients, 8 developed CNS infections within four years after transplantation, resulting in three deaths and two survivors with mild complications.
A study published in PLoS Biology finds that low levels of toxic substances cause critical stem cells to prematurely shut down. The research identifies a common molecular trigger for the effects of toxicant exposure, offering new insights into damage caused by toxicant exposure and potential methods to evaluate chemical safety.
In ICU, multiple organ failure is the main cause of death, with central nervous system and cardiovascular failures being significant risk factors. In hospitals after ICU discharge, malignant tumors and exacerbation of cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death.
A new study shows that anakinra, a rare arthritis drug, brings marked improvement to children and young adults with the devastating inflammatory disease NOMID. The treatment reduces inflammation, improves symptoms, and has a significant impact on the central nervous system.
Using fruit flies, scientists confirm bursicon's role in hardening exoskeletons after molting and enabling wing development. The discovery could lead to precise timing of pest control measures for migratory locust outbreaks.
Researchers found that a single bout of strenuous exercise 24 hours before a simulated dive significantly reduced bubble formation. This non-pharmacological procedure may form the basis for preventing serious decompression sickness.
A study published in the journal AIDS found that HAART therapy can significantly prolong survival for AIDS patients with central nervous system lymphoma, with median survival of at least 22 months. This is a significant finding, as previously diagnosed patients had only a few weeks to months after diagnosis.
Three exceptional researchers have been awarded the Young Minds in CNS Award for their innovative work on residual symptoms in bipolar disorder, serotonin receptors in anxiety disorders, and thalamic neurochemistry in schizophrenia. The $20,000 award will support career development and attendance at international congresses.
A six-month pilot study found that Ginkgo biloba improved performance on neuropsychological tests in patients with mild multiple sclerosis. About 50% of Americans with MS experience cognitive problems, and the herb may show a beneficial effect on attention, memory, and functioning.
A University of Toronto researcher discovered that embryonic motor systems are largely intrinsic to central nervous systems, with rhythmic movements developing even when deprived of sensory input. This suggests that these movements are coded in the intrinsic properties of neurons, sufficient to drive coordinated movement.
The AstraZeneca CNS Awards Program was launched in 2002 to support the career advancement of young physicians in central nervous system (CNS) fields. The program recognizes excellence in innovative research, educational efforts, travel, and materials, and offers a platform for award winners to reach their full potential.
A pilot program at Sandia National Laboratories aims to close the time gap between disease outbreak identification and terrorist origin. The system will use color-coded maps and database information to quickly characterize and differentiate disease outbreaks from natural occurrences.