Maternal obesity may hinder their child's brain development as soon as the second trimester of pregnancy. High maternal BMI is associated with changes to the child's prefrontal cortex and anterior insula, two brain areas associated with decision making, and behavior. Read More
Using chemogenetic methods, researchers activated neurons in the anterior insular and increased prosocial behavior in rodent models of opioid addiction. Read More
Study identifies distinct neural processes that occur when we make decisions for the benefit of ourselves and of others. Read More
Microscopic alterations in white matter may affect how patients with neurological conditions respond to non-invasive electrical brain stimulation. Read More
Cannabidiol may buffer the effects of THC on the brain for those who use marijuana. Marijuana with a higher CBD content restores disruptions to the salience network caused by THC exposure. Read More
Researchers report those who enter into an altruistic act, such as donating a kidney to an anonymous recipient, are more sensitive to a stranger's fear and pain. Read More
A new study reveals the cognitive and neurobiological processes that influence whether a person is likely to be a leader or follower. Read More
A new study sheds light on the neural mechanisms behind how we make effortful decisions. Read More
University of Basel researchers reveal the volume of the anterior insula, a brain area associated with emotion and empathy, is larger in boys who express higher levels of callous-unemotional traits. Read More
Study reveals how the brain's opioid system modulates response to others in pain. Read More
A new study reveals acute stress can increase pro-social behavior and empathy. Read More
Researchers report early indicators of depression and anxiety may be evident in the brain from birth. Read More