Articles tagged with Substantia Nigra
Researchers identified a dual learning system in the brain that enables habits to form and provides a scientific basis for breaking bad habits. The study suggests that replacing an action consistently can lead to the APE system forming a new habit, offering a potential strategy for overcoming addictions.
Researchers at MIT have discovered additional brain pathways that modulate dopamine release, influencing movement and emotional decisions. The newly identified pathways appear to relay emotional information that helps shape motivation to take action.
Researchers comprehensively reviewed cerebellar involvement in Parkinson's disease, highlighting the pathophysiological role of the cerebellum in motor and non-motor symptoms. Studies showed abnormal α-synuclein aggregation, neurodegeneration, and altered functional connectivity between the cerebellum and other brain regions.
A cross-sectional study of CTE patients found that years of contact sports participation are linked to substantia nigra pathology, leading to parkinsonism. The study suggests that repetitive head impacts may trigger neuropathologic processes in individuals with CTE.
Researchers discovered a previously unreported neuron type with vulnerability in Parkinson's disease, shedding light on the complexity of the disease and potential therapeutic targets. The study identified distinct transcriptomic signatures of this neuron type and found reduced RIT2 expression in Parkinson's disease patients.
Researchers have identified two cell populations in the substantia nigra that control distinct phases of locomotion. The study reveals a critical role for these populations in maintaining correct movement, and their dysfunction may contribute to Parkinson's disease symptoms.
Researchers identify neuromelanin-sensitive MRI as a potential biomarker for psychosis, finding associations with dopamine function and severity of symptoms. The study uses NM-MRI signal to measure regional variations in neuromelanin concentration, reflecting dopamine activity.
Researchers at the University of Turku found that SPECT imaging does not correlate with the number of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra, a key area affected by Parkinson's disease. This discovery has significant implications for future treatment development and monitoring.
Baicalin inhibits iron accumulation after substantia nigra injury by down-regulating divalent metal transporter 1 and increasing ferroportin 1 expression. This study suggests baicalin as a potential therapeutic agent for Parkinson's disease prevention.
Stimulating the ventral tegmental area with mild electric currents induced dopamine release and restored conscious behaviors in anesthetized rats. The study suggests that dopamine release from this region may play a role in emergence from general anesthesia.
Researchers have identified a new and accurate test for Parkinson's disease using 3T MRI scanning technology, known as the 'swallow tail' appearance of the healthy nigrosome. This sign is absent in Parkinson's disease, making it a potential diagnostic tool for clinicians.
Researchers found movement deficits and loss of tyrosine-hydroxylase-positive fibers in the striatum, with no significant decrease in nigral dopaminergic neurons. The study suggests that gliosis in the substantia nigra plays a role in introducing dopaminergic deficits.
A small stroke, known as a silent stroke, can cause Parkinson's disease by killing dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. The study found inflammation and brain damage following the stroke, leading to neurodegeneration and potential onset of Parkinson's disease.
A new MRI technique has provided the first clinical evidence for the theory that Parkinson's neurodegeneration begins deep in the brain and advances upward. The study found significant loss of volume in the substantia nigra early on, followed by loss of basal forebrain volume later in the disease.
Researchers discovered that adding extra copies of a gene makes a protective protein neutralize toxic chemicals in the brain, preventing cell death. This breakthrough could offer profound protection against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS.
A study by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft researchers found that disabling Ret-receptors in mice leads to earlier death of dopaminergic neurons, similar to Parkinson's disease. The loss of these neurons is a hallmark of the disease, and the study suggests that preserving this function may be crucial for preventing neurodegeneration.
GST pi is a critical enzyme that stands at the crossroads of several biochemical pathways leading to Parkinson's disease. It prevents both externally provoked cell death and internally initiated suicide by blocking the formation of free radicals, which cause cell damage.