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central amygdala

·May 18, 2020·4 min read

Scientists find brain center that ‘profoundly’ shuts down pain

Researchers identified a distinct population of GABAergic neurons activated by general anesthetic in the central amygdala of mice. The findings point to central amygdala GABAergic neurons as a potential therapeutic target to alleviate chronic pain.

This shows neurons in the central amygdala

Featured Neuroscience

·April 25, 2019·4 min read

Comfort food leads to more weight gain during stress

A combination of chronic stress and high-calorie diets raised insulin levels tenfold in the amygdala of mice. Prolonged high levels of insulin in the central amygdala resulted in neurons becoming desensitized to insulin. The desensitized neurons boosted NPY levels, which promoted eating and reduced the normal homeostasis response to burn calories. The findings may shed light on why some indulge in high-calorie foods when stressed, and why this may lead to obesity.

PET brain scan of an alzheimer's patient

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·March 14, 2019·4 min read

Insulin Signaling Failures in the Brain Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease

Insulin signaling plays a role in regulating synaptic function, glucose homeostasis, and cognition, a new study reports. Impairments in insulin signaling result in metabolic defects, in addition to memory and learning deficits, mirroring the cognitive impairments associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 29, 2018·3 min read

How a Brain Circuit Generates Anxiety

Researchers have identified a specific circuit in the brain's central amygdala that raises anxiety levels. The study could pave the way for the development of new treatments for anxiety disorders.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 22, 2017·5 min read

Brain Region Mediates Pleasure of Eating

Researchers have identified neurons in the amygdala that make food consumption rewarding. Activating NTR2a neurons caused mice to eat for longer periods of time.