FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·April 7, 2025·8 min readImmune Signals Shape Social Behavior and Anxiety in the BrainNew research reveals that the immune molecule IL-17 can influence behavior by acting directly on specific regions of the brain. IL-17 reduces neuron excitability in the cortex to enhance sociability, while in the amygdala, it increases excitability and induces anxiety.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·March 19, 2025·8 min readFrom High Valyrian to Klingon: Artificial Languages Engage the Brain Like Natural SpeechA new study finds that the brain processes artificial languages, such as Esperanto and Klingon, using the same neural network as natural languages. Researchers scanned the brains of 44 speakers of constructed languages and observed activation in language-processing regions when participants listened to sentences in their conlang. This contrasts with computer programming languages, which engage different brain areas linked to logical reasoning.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·March 18, 2025·7 min readWhen Did Humans First Speak? Genes Offer New Clues on Language OriginsNew genetic research suggests that humans first developed language around 135,000 years ago when populations began geographically splitting, followed by widespread social use around 100,000 years ago. Using data from 15 genetic studies, researchers found that early human groups branched out approximately 135,000 years ago, which likely coincides with the origin of language as a cognitive system.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·January 15, 2025·8 min readHow the Brain Uses Place Cells to Anchor Episodic MemoriesResearchers have developed a model explaining how place cells in the hippocampus anchor both spatial and episodic memories. Grid cells in the entorhinal cortex interact with hippocampal cells to create a scaffold, linking memories to specific neural patterns.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 21, 2024·8 min readToddlers Use Grammar Hints to Unlock the Meaning of New WordsToddlers use subtle grammatical cues in sentences to infer the meanings of new words. Researchers found that children rely on "focus" signals—emphasis or stress in speech—rather than assuming words are mutually exclusive.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 12, 2024·8 min readExercise Spurs Nerve Growth Through Biochemical and Physical ImpactResearchers found that exercise promotes neuron growth through both biochemical signals (myokines) and physical stretching. Muscle cells, when contracted, release myokines that boost neuron growth and maturity.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 7, 2024·7 min readCan Language Models Really Understand? Study Uncovers Limits in AI LogicA recent study questions if large language models (LLMs) truly form coherent world models, despite their accurate outputs in complex tasks like generating directions or playing games. Researchers found that while LLMs provide nearly flawless driving directions, they fail with unexpected changes, suggesting the models don't grasp underlying rules.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 3, 2024·8 min readResearchers Create Cell-Level Wearable Devices to Restore Neuron FunctionResearchers have developed tiny, wireless devices capable of wrapping around individual neurons, potentially aiding in the treatment of neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis. These devices, made from a soft polymer, roll up snugly around cell structures when exposed to light, allowing precise measurement and modulation of cellular activity. As they’re battery-free and actuated noninvasively by light, thousands of them could be deployed in the body simultaneously.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·October 28, 2024·6 min readWhen Human-AI Teams Thrive and When They Don’tA new study reveals that while human-AI collaboration can be powerful, it depends on the task. Analysis of hundreds of studies found that AI outperformed human-AI teams in decision-making tasks, while collaborative teams excelled in creative tasks like content generation. This research suggests organizations may overestimate the benefits of human-AI synergy. Instead, strategic use of AI’s strengths in data processing and humans’ creativity may yield the best results.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·October 23, 2024·6 min readNeural Pathways Link Dopamine to Movement and MotivationResearchers have discovered two new brain pathways that modify movement and emotional decisions by controlling dopamine release. These pathways, found in the striatum, either stimulate or inhibit dopamine-producing neurons, influencing the go and no-go pathways that control movement.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·October 18, 2024·8 min readWhen Does Election Debunking Work? New Model Provides InsightsA study using a computational model reveals factors that influence whether debunking efforts about disputed election results will persuade people to change their beliefs. The model shows that debunking is more likely to succeed when individuals are less certain of their original beliefs and perceive the authority as unbiased and motivated by accuracy.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·October 13, 2024·7 min readMagnetic Nanodiscs Offer Implant-Free Brain StimulationScientists have developed magnetic nanodiscs that enable targeted brain stimulation without invasive implants or genetic modifications. The tiny discs, activated by an external magnetic field, deliver electrical pulses to neurons, showing potential in treating neurological conditions. Initial tests in mice demonstrated that these nanodiscs effectively stimulate brain regions linked to reward and motor control, with fewer foreign body responses compared to traditional implants.Read More
