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neurobiology

·October 18, 2024·5 min read

Mosaic Brain Evolution Drives Learning in Tropical Butterfly

Researchers have discovered that Heliconius butterflies, known for feeding on both nectar and pollen, show mosaic brain evolution with specialized neural expansions linked to enhanced learning and memory abilities. This expansion occurs in specific brain structures called mushroom bodies, which are key for long-term visual memory and spatial learning.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·October 18, 2024·4 min read

Disrupted Protein Clearance After TBI Tied to Alzheimer’s

A study has found that traumatic brain injury (TBI) increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by disrupting protein clearance, leading to the accumulation of toxic tau proteins in the brain. Researchers discovered that TBI downregulates BAG3, a protein crucial for clearing damaged proteins, which contributes to Alzheimer's-related tau buildup.

This shows a person at a podium and brains.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 18, 2024·8 min read

When Does Election Debunking Work? New Model Provides Insights

A 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.

This shows a brain and a person sleeping.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·October 18, 2024·3 min read

REM Sleep-Inducing Neurons Identified

Researchers have discovered two neuron types in the brainstem that induce REM sleep, shedding light on the mechanisms behind this crucial sleep phase. These neurons form circuits that control brain activity, eye movement, and muscle tone loss during REM sleep.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·October 18, 2024·6 min read

Alzheimer’s Progresses in Two Distinct Phases

New research has shown that Alzheimer’s disease impacts the brain in two primary phases: an early, gradual phase that damages select cell types and a late phase marked by rapid, widespread damage as symptoms emerge. In the early stage, subtle changes occur slowly, including the loss of specific inhibitory neurons, which may contribute to neural circuit dysfunction. The second phase aligns with symptom onset and the buildup of Alzheimer’s hallmarks like plaques and tangles.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 18, 2024·3 min read

EEG Test Detects Daytime Sleepiness in Just Two Minutes

Researchers have developed a brain-based test that diagnoses excessive daytime sleepiness in just two minutes, potentially replacing the lengthy hospital-based procedure currently used. Using EEG to track neuronal excitability, this test detects how quickly a person is likely to fall asleep, indicating their overall sleepiness level.

This shows a pregnant woman and a brain.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·October 17, 2024·4 min read

Folic Acid Reduces Lead’s Impact on Autism Risk

A study has shown that folic acid supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the link between maternal blood lead levels and autistic-like behaviors in children. By examining data from pregnant women and their toddlers, researchers found stronger associations between lead exposure and autism traits in cases of low folic acid intake.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·October 17, 2024·6 min read

Cannabis Leaves Molecular Marks on DNA Linked to Psychosis

Frequent use of high-potency cannabis leaves unique molecular marks on DNA, particularly affecting genes related to energy and immune function. Researchers found that DNA methylation—an epigenetic modification—differed between frequent cannabis users who had experienced psychosis and those who had not, suggesting a possible genetic link to psychosis risk.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 17, 2024·4 min read

New Tech Boosts Precision in Hand Neuroprostheses

Scientists have developed a novel approach to improve neuroprostheses, making them more precise and practical for everyday tasks. By analyzing neural signals linked to hand postures, researchers demonstrated enhanced control of virtual hands in rhesus monkeys, closely mimicking fine motor skills.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 17, 2024·5 min read

Chemical Mixtures in Blood Show Additive Neurotoxic Effects

A new study has found that even low concentrations of chemicals, when mixed, can have cumulative neurotoxic effects on human cells. Using blood samples from a cohort of pregnant women, researchers identified and analyzed the presence of over 300 chemicals.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·October 17, 2024·4 min read

Microglia Found to Protect Neurons Post-Spinal Cord Injury

Researchers discovered a neuroprotective mechanism in spinal cord injury (SCI) involving microglia, the brain’s immune cells, which could provide new therapeutic targets. Using advanced in vivo imaging, the team revealed that microglia form protective wraps around injured axons, preventing further damage. This interaction, regulated by P2Y12 receptors and sodium channels, sheds light on neuron-glia communication after injury. The study's insights into spinal cord protection could eventually lead to new treatments for SCI and related neurological diseases.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 17, 2024·6 min read

People Empathize with Bullied AI Bots

People empathize with AI bots excluded from a virtual game, treating them like social beings in need of fairness. Participants favored giving the AI bot a fair chance in play, with older adults showing a stronger inclination to rectify the perceived unfairness.