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neurobiology

This is a drawing of a person's right eye.

·February 15, 2013·2 min read

Research Uncovers a Potential link Between Parkinson’s and Visual Problems

According to a new study, the most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s is not only responsible for the condition’s distinctive movement problems but may also affect vision.

The image shows a 3D schematic structure of IGF-1.

Featured Neurology

·February 14, 2013·3 min read

Low Protein Diet Slows Alzheimer’s in Mice

Researchers discovered that a low protein diet can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in mice. By cycling between a normal and protein restricted diet, researchers noted both improvement in memory and a slowing in the advancement of the disease.

The image shows the major brain structures implicated in autism.

Autism Featured

·February 14, 2013·4 min read

Behavioral Therapy for Children With Autism Can Impact Brain Function

Using fMRI for before-and-after analysis, a team of researchers discovered positive changes in brain activity in children with autism who received a particular type of behavioral therapy.

The image shows a brain scan which shows cerebral white matter hyperintensities, lacuna and microbleeds.

Featured Neurology

·February 13, 2013·2 min read

Blood May Hold Clues to Risk of Memory Problems After Menopause

A new study suggests that blood may hold clues to whether post-menopausal women may have an increased risk for brain damage that can lead to memory problems and an increased risk of stroke.

The image shows the thermosensitve afferents of TRPM8.

Electrophysiology Featured

·February 13, 2013·2 min read

Scientists Turn Off the Ability to Feel Cold

Researchers have isolated chills at a cellular level, identifying the sensory network of neurons in the skin that relays the sensation of cold. By better understanding the specific ways in which we feel sensations, scientists hope to one day develop better pain treatments without knocking out all ability to feel for suffering patients.

The image shows two soldiers performing a computer test,

Featured Psychology

·February 13, 2013·3 min read

Gene Associated with High Anxiety Can Have Protective Effect on the Battlefield

Through a combination of genetic and psychological testing, researchers have identified factors that mitigate against PTSD. In combat, soldiers who avoided threats were more likely to develop PTSD as a result of traumatic experiences, the study found.

The image shows a 3D model of the structure of serotonin.

Featured Neuroscience

·February 13, 2013·4 min read

Rewiring the Serotonin System

Researchers discover a new way to influence the serotonin signaling system. The findings could lead to more effective medications with fewer side effects.

The image shows a person undergoing a deep brain stimulation implant surgery.

Featured Neurology

·February 12, 2013·4 min read

In Some Dystonia Cases, Deep Brain Therapy Benefits may Linger After Device is Turned Off

According to a new report, two patients with Dystonia were freed from the severe debilitating effects of the disease through deep brain stimulation therapy, continued to have symptom relief for months after their devices accidentally were fully or partly turned off.

The image shows the set up and output images for this research. The caption best explains the image.

Featured

·February 12, 2013·5 min read

Neuroprosthesis Gives Rats the Ability to ‘Touch’ Infrared Light

Researchers have given rats the ability to "touch" infrared light by fitting them with an infrared detector wired to microscopic electrodes implanted in the part of the mammalian brain that processes tactile information. The study demonstrated that a novel sensory input could be processed by a cortical region specialized in another sense without "hijacking" the function of this brain area.

The image shows a coronal MRI scan of a patient with ALS.

Featured Neurology

·February 12, 2013·3 min read

Novel Protein May Help Detect Lou Gehrig’s Disease and Dementia

Researchers discover an abnormal protein that accumulates in the brains of patients affected with ALS and frontotemporal dementia. The findings have uncovered a potentially new therapeutic target and biomarker that would allow clinicians to confirm diagnosis of the diseases.

The image shows 11 year old pianist, Danny Barenboim playing at a concert in 1956.

Featured Neuroscience

·February 12, 2013·3 min read

Early Music Lessons Boost Brain Development

A new study suggests early musical training has a significant effect on the development of the brain. Practicing instruments before the age of seven boosts the normal maturation of connections between motor and sensory regions of the brain, researchers suggest.

Corticogenesis with six cortical layers is shown.

Autism Featured Genetics Neurology

·February 11, 2013·3 min read

Genes for Autism and Schizophrenia Only Active in Developing Brains

Genes linked to autism and schizophrenia are only switched on during the early stages of brain development, according to a study in mice led by researchers at the University of Oxford.