After 12 days of sugar intake, researchers noted major changes in both the dopamine and opioid systems of pigs' brains. Alterations in the opioid system were seen following the very first intake of sugar.
People with mood and substance use disorders have reduced lifespan compared to their peers without a mental health disorder. Those with mood disorders have an increased death risk as a result of health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Men with mood disorders experience a reduced life expectancy of 7.9 years, and women 6.2 years, compared to those with no history of depression or anxiety.
Parkinson's disease involves monocytic alterations in the blood. The cells have reduced viability and are unresponsive to specific stimuli, which could have relevant consequences for the progression of Parkinson's. Immune modulation medications may be a new treatment option to inhibit neurodegeneration associated with PD.
Two months after injecting alpha-synuclein into the intestines of rats, researchers discovered the proteins had traveled to the brain via peripheral nerves. Four months later, the pathology was greater. Additionally, the protein had traveled to the heart. The study supports the hypothesis that Parkinson's disease may begin in the intestinal system before migrating to the brain.
Those who are 10 kilograms, or 22 pounds, overweight have a 17% increased risk of developing depression. The risk of depression increases in line with how overweight a person is.
Study reports dogs communicate distress more effectively via vocalizations than cats. Owning a pet makes you more sensitive to the negative vocalizations of both cats and dogs.
Women who experience migraines while pregnant are at increased risk of miscarriage, caesarean sections, preterm labor and delivering babies with low birth weight.
Researchers have identified a genetic variant that increases the risk of cannabis use disorder (CUD). The variant affects the formations of specific nicotine receptors in the brain. Those who have less of these receptors are more likely to develop CUD. Additionally, researchers found those with a higher number of genetic variants associated with impaired cognition are more likely to struggle with marijuana addiction.
One in four people who have both schizophrenia and epilepsy die between the ages of 25-50.
Anti-inflammatory medications, such as those commonly prescribed for arthritis, improve depressive symptoms in those with MDD.
Researchers have identified the first common genetic risk variants for ASD. The study, which also reveals specific genetics differences in clinical subgroups of autism, may help in providing more precise diagnoses for those on the autism spectrum.
Researchers report children who grow up surrounded by green space have a 55% reduced risk of developing a mental health disorder as they age.
