‘Good Vibrations’! Brain Ultrasound Improves Mood
Researchers have investigated transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) for modulating mental states in human volunteers suffering from chronic pain.
Sensational Success in Patients with Major Depression Using Deep Brain Stimulation
Researchers implanted pacemaker electrodes into the medial forebrain bundle of patients suffering from major depression and performed deep brain stimulation. In a matter of days, in six out of seven patients, symptoms such as anxiety, despondence, listlessness and joylessness had improved considerably.
Flip of a Single Molecular Switch Makes an Old Brain Young
Monitoring the synapses of living mice, researchers discover an important genetic switch for brain maturation. Mice without the Nogo Receptor 1 gene have persistent levels of juvenile brain plasticity through adulthood.
Brain-to-Brain Interface Allows Transmission of Tactile and Motor Information Between Rats 1000s of Miles Apart
Researchers electronically linked the brains of pairs of rats for the first time, enabling them to communicate directly to solve simple behavioral puzzles. A further test of this work successfully linked the brains of two animals thousands of miles apart – one in Durham, N.C., and one in Natal, Brazil.
Has Evolution Given Humans Unique Brain Structures?
Comparing fMRI scans of human brains and those of rhesus monkeys, researchers believe they have new evidence which proves humans have unique cortical brain networks.
Rewriting a Receptor’s Role
Researchers upend a long-held view about the basic functioning of a key receptor molecule involved in signaling between neurons. The study describes how a compound linked to Alzheimer’s disease impacts NMDA receptors and weakens synaptic connections between brain cells.
Reading the Minds of Mice
Researchers recently developed a system for observing real-time brain activity in a live mouse. The device could prove useful in studying new treatments for Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Blood May Hold Clues to Risk of Memory Problems After Menopause
A new study suggests that blood may hold clues to whether post-menopausal women may have an increased risk for brain damage that can lead to memory problems and an increased risk of stroke.
Scientists Turn Off the Ability to Feel Cold
Researchers have isolated chills at a cellular level, identifying the sensory network of neurons in the skin that relays the sensation of cold. By better understanding the specific ways in which we feel sensations, scientists hope to one day develop better pain treatments without knocking out all ability to feel for suffering patients.
Rewiring the Serotonin System
Researchers discover a new way to influence the serotonin signaling system. The findings could lead to more effective medications with fewer side effects.
