‘Depression Genes’ May Not Exist
Contradicting previous studies, UC Boulder researchers report there is no clear evidence of any candidate gene associated with depression. ... Read More...
BDNF
NIH-funded rodent study finds molecular link between adolescent alcohol use and adult anxiety
Adolescent rats exposed to alcohol had a decrease of both Arc eRNA expression and Arc gene expression in the amygdala during adulthood. Additionally, the alcohol-exposed rats displayed increased anxiety behaviors as they aged.... Read More...
Estrogen Made by Neurons Important to Memory Making
Researchers report estrogen may play a significant role in synaptic plasticity and memory formation. The study reports mice whose neurons did not produce estrogen have impairments in spatial reference memories, recognition and contextual fear memories. Restoring estrogen levels assisted in reversing the memory impairments, the study revealed.... Read More...
Extinguishing Fear Memories Relies On An Unusual Change to DNA
Researchers report fear extinction memories form as a result of an adenosine modification, which help to increase the activity of specific genes. ... Read More...
The Neurobiology of Social Aggression
Researchers report a signalling mechanism in the brain shapes social behavior. The findings may have implications for better understanding social hierarchies, aggression and bullying.... Read More...
Exercise Generates New Neurons and Improves Cognition in Alzheimer’s: Mouse Study
Researchers report exercise can promote adult hippocampal neurogenesis and improve cognition in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. The study identifies ways to mimic the beneficial effects of experience through pharmacological and gene therapy. ... Read More...
Broken Shuttle May Interfere with Learning in Brain Disorders
Researchers report the gamma-CaMPII protein plays a critical role in learning and memory. The shuttle protein may be dysfunctional in those with Schizophrenia and autism, hindering learning abilities, researchers report.... Read More...
How Do We Lose Memory? A STEP at a Time
A new study reports increased levels of STEP in the hippocampus is linked to mild cognitive impairment.... Read More...
Running Helps Brain Stave off Effects of Chronic Stress
Researchers report running can help mitigate the impact chronic stress has on the hippocampus.... Read More...
Dim Light May Make Us Dumber
A new study reveals exposure to dim light might impact memory and learning. Researchers report rodents exposed to dim lighting lost 30 percent of hippocampal capacity and performed poorly on spatial tasks they had previously experienced. ... Read More...
New Path For Bipolar Disorder Comes to Light
EGR3 and BDNF may play a critical role in the impaired cellular resilience seen in bipolar disorder, researchers report.... Read More...
Women Who Attempt Suicide Exhibit Different Protein Levels Years After the Attempt
Binghampton University researchers report women with a history of suicide attempts express lower levels of BDNF, a protein critical for the creation and function of neurons, in their bloodstream. Researchers believe the level of BDNF found in the circulatory system may be a biomarker for suicidal behavior.... Read More...