chemogenetics

·July 25, 2019·3 min read

The science behind giving up

Pnoc neurons in the paranigral ventral tegmental area become active when mice seek rewards. Stimulating these neurons with optogenetics promotes avoidance behaviors. Researchers say ventral tegmental area dopamine neuron NOPR expression is necessary to limit reward-seeking behavior.

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·October 8, 2018·4 min read

Out Like a Light”: Brain’s Sleep Switch Identified

Researchers have identified a set of neurons, located in a region of the hypothalamus, that may be the switch that turns the brain off, allowing for sleep. The neurons are also tied to body temperature regulation.

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·July 9, 2018·5 min read

Switching Brain Circuits On and Off Without Surgery

Researchers have developed a new, non surgical method to manipulate brain circuitry. The technique uses sound waves in combination with small bubble injections into the blood stream that temporarily opens the blood-brain barrier.

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·November 10, 2017·5 min read

New Wake Promoting Node Pinpointed in Brain

A new study reports supamammillary glutamate neurons in the caudal hypothalamus play a critical role in wakefulness.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·November 4, 2017·5 min read

Sleeping Through Snoring: Neurons That Rouse Brain to Breath Identified

Researchers have identified a mechanism that helps rouse the brains of mice suffering from simulated sleep apnea. The findings could help develop new treatments for people with obstructive sleep apnea and provide new insights into SIDS.