Mechanisms Behind Choosing Alcohol Over Healthy Rewards Identified
Researchers reveal how molecular alterations in the brain are linked to behaviors central to addiction.... Read More...
Genetics
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...
New Technique Helps Uncover Changes in ALS Neurons
A new method reveals some ALS affected neurons display hypo-excitability. Researchers say these changes most likely represent early steps in the disease progression.... Read More...
Caffeine From Four Cups of Coffee Protects the Heart With the Help of Mitochondria
A new study reports caffeine concentration, the equivalent of four cups of coffee, can promote the movement of a regulatory protein into mitochondria. This can enhance mitochondrial function and protect heart cells from damage.... Read More...
Psychiatric Disorders Share an Underlying Genetic Basis
Researchers have identified genetic overlaps between different types of psychiatric disorders including ADHD, bipolar disorder, MDD and schizophrenia. They also identified an overlap between anorexia and OCD, as well as between Tourettes and OCD.... Read More...
The Psychobiology of Online Gaming
Gene expression is influence by gamers' degree of social connectedness to others, researchers report. For those with online gaming addiction, the gene expression can lead to chronic stress.... Read More...
Emotional Eating in Childhood is Learned at Home
Unlike food fussiness, genetics only plays a small part in a young child's emotional eating patterns. Researchers say emotional eating is influenced by parents and the home environment.... Read More...
Viral Connection to Alzheimer’s: Herpes Virus Implicated in Alzheimer’s Disease
Researchers provide evidence that certain species of human herpesvirus contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. The study reports high levels of human herpesvirus 6A and 7 were found in brain samples showing signs of Alzheimer's neuropathology. The findings offer hints of the viral mechanisms that could trigger or exacerbate AD.... Read More...
Cell Type and Environment Influence Protein Turnover in the Brain
A new study reveals proteins in the brain are replaced at different rates, depending on their location. The findings could shed light on how the components of different cells are altered, and how this can impact memory formation.... Read More...
Mechanism Controlling Multiple Sclerosis Risk Identified
Researchers have identified a new mechanism of a risk gene for multiple sclerosis that triggers the disease via epigentic regulation. The study reports a protective genetic variant can reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis through the same mechanism.... Read More...
Important New Piece in Huntington’s Disease Puzzle Identified
Researchers have identified a reduced exchange of glutamine between astrocytes and neurons in a new Huntington's disease study.... Read More...
Shared Genetics May Shape Treatment Options for Certain Brain Disorders
Researchers report common symptoms of bipolar depression and schizophrenia, such as depression, psychosis and mania, have shared and distinguished genetic risk factors. The findings could help with the development of more effective therapies for these neuropsychological disorders.... Read More...