Is laziness a choice or genetic trait?
Study identifies a specific gene in rats that relates to physical inactivity. The gene could play a role in human sedentary behaviors.... Read More...
mRNA
Receptor protein in brain promotes resilience to stress
S1PR3, a receptor found on the surface of brain cells, may play a key role in stress resilience. Veterans with severe PTSD symptoms had lower levels of the S1PR3 protein in their blood than peers without the disorder. ... Read More...
‘Love hormone’ has stomach-turning effect in starfish
Oxytocin, a hormone commonly associated with love and bonding in humans, causes starfish to turn their stomachs inside-out to feed. The findings provide vital new evidence for the evolutionary role of oxytocin and vasopressin neuropeptides as regulators of feeding in animals.... Read More...
Study looks at stem cells for answers to how a type of autism develops
Stem cell study reveals a genetic defect associated with fragile X syndrome delays the production of neurons during a critical stage of embryonic development. ... Read More...
Connecting neurons in the brain
The phosphatase Prl-1 plays a key role in specifying where to form the highest density of synaptic connections on a neuron. ... Read More...
Smelling with your tongue: Functional olfactory receptors in human taste center identified
Functional olfactory receptors have been identified in human taste cells. The findings suggest olfactory receptors play a role in the taste system by interacting with taste receptors on the tongue. The brain, researchers say, combines input from taste, smell and other senses to create a multi-modal sensation of flavor.... Read More...
Inflammation linked to chemical imbalance in schizophrenia
Increased kynurenic acid production has been implicated in the pathology of schizophrenia. The findings provide a new target for cell-specific treatments that help reduce the production of kynurenic acid and reduce symptoms of schizophrenia.... Read More...
How ALS progresses on genetic and cellular level revealed by high-res spinal cord study
Changes in gene expression help researchers identify ALS associated pathways and establish the key drivers of motor neuron degeneration in the disease.... Read More...
Nicotine Exposure During Pregnancy Alters Dopamine Neurons and Genes in Newborns
A new study reports chronic nicotine exposure during pregnancy alters the genetics and dopamine neurons of newborns. The findings could help researchers develop a possible cure for nicotine addiction.... Read More...
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Defeating Glioblastoma
Researchers have developed a new approach that uses microRNA in combination with chemotherapy to help treat glioblastoma brain cancer. In preclinical models, the approach increases survival of the deadly brain cancer five fold.... Read More...
Sugar Targets Gut Microbe Linked to Lean and Healthy People
A new study looks at the effect a Western style diet has on the gut microbiome. Researchers report both fructose and glucose block the production of Roc, a protein required for the colonization of beneficial bacteria in the gut.... Read More...
Improving Understanding of the Formation of New Neurons in the Mammalian Adult Brain
Researchers have developed an innovative approach to identifying novel cellular targets and pathways involved in wiring adult born neurons into existing brain circuits.... Read More...