Dopamine Primes the Brain for Enhanced Vigilance
Researchers have identified a brain network that may control the diversion of attention to focus on potential threats. Dopamine, they report, is key to the process.... Read More...
mPFC
Aging and Decision Making: Who Makes Riskier Decisions?
Researchers report older people may make riskier decisions than younger people. ... Read More...
Why it Doesn’t Go Dark When You Blink
Researchers report the medial prefrontal cortex calibrates current visual information with previously obtained information to help us perceive the world with more stability, helping to retain visual consistency as we blink.... Read More...
The Neuroscience of Envy
A new study provides insight into the neurobiological underpinnings of envy. Researchers have identified a part of the brain that specifically registers when another receives a reward. This affects the subjective value placed on personal resources and rewards.... Read More...
Video Game May Improve Empathy in Middle Schoolers
Researchers report a new video game aimed at middle school children can help boost empathy and prosocial behavior. The study reports children exposed to the game showed greater connectivity between brain networks linked to emotional regulation and perspective taking.... Read More...
Follow the Leader: What Sets Leaders Apart?
A new study reveals the cognitive and neurobiological processes that influence whether a person is likely to be a leader or follower. ... Read More...
Neuroinflammation Play a Critical Role in Stress Induced Depression
Researchers report repeated social defeat stress activates microglia in the medial prefrontal cortex, triggering inflammation related cytokines. This leads to impaired neural responses in the mPFC, resulting in depressive behavior.... Read More...
Perinatal Exposure to Phthalates Impairs Brain Structure and Function: Rat Study
Researchers report rats exposed to phthalates, both while in the womb and through lactation, had fewer neurons and synapses than peers who were not exposed to the plasticizing chemicals. Additionally, the phthalate exposed rats showed deficits in cognitive flexibility.... Read More...
How the Brain Plays a Role in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Peripheral inflammation is associated with brain connectivity and structure in those with rheumatoid arthritis, a new study reports.... Read More...
High Saturated Fat Diet Linked to Poor Stress Coping Skills in Adolescents
Researchers report high fat diets in teens is associated with poor stress coping skills later in life.... Read More...
Our Brains Are Obsessed with Being Social
Researchers report the temporoparietal junction and medial prefrontal cortex experience increased connectivity during rest following encoding new social information.... Read More...
Brain Circuits Behind Putting Up a Fight or Freezing in Place Identified
Researchers have identified two brain pathways that appear to be critical in determining how mice react to visual threats. The findings could have implications for treating PTSD and phobias in humans.... Read More...