FeaturedNeuroscience·February 19, 2013·5 min readEngineering Control Theory Helps Create Dynamic Brain ModelsModels of the human brain, patterned on engineering control theory, could assist researchers control neurological diseases, according researcher who is using mathematical models of neuron networks from which more complex brain models emerge.Read More
ElectrophysiologyFeaturedNeuroscience·February 19, 2013·2 min readRewriting a Receptor’s RoleResearchers upend a long-held view about the basic functioning of a key receptor molecule involved in signaling between neurons. The study describes how a compound linked to Alzheimer's disease impacts NMDA receptors and weakens synaptic connections between brain cells.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·February 19, 2013·3 min readReading the Minds of MiceResearchers recently developed a system for observing real-time brain activity in a live mouse. The device could prove useful in studying new treatments for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·February 15, 2013·2 min readNeuronal Activity Induces Tau Release from Healthy NeuronsResearchers discover neuronal activity can stimulate tau release from healthy neurons in the absence of cell death. The study shows treatment of neurons with known biological signaling molecules increases the release of tau into the culture medium.Read More
FeaturedGenetics·February 15, 2013·2 min readResearch Uncovers a Potential link Between Parkinson’s and Visual ProblemsAccording 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.Read More
FeaturedNeurology·February 12, 2013·3 min readNovel Protein May Help Detect Lou Gehrig’s Disease and DementiaResearchers 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.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·February 11, 2013·4 min readSimulations Show how Blood Vessels Regroup after StrokeBy simulating patterns of microvasculature cell growth and compare the results with real networks grown in lab, researchers hope to direct how they grow into the tiny blood vessels that feed the brain and help people regain functions lost to stroke and disease.Read More
FeaturedNeurology·February 7, 2013·3 min readExcess Protein Linked to Development of Parkinson’s DiseaseResearchers suggest the overexpression of a protein called alpha-synuclein appears to disrupt vital recycling processes in neurons. The study may have major implications for more fully understanding the causes and mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease.Read More
FeaturedGenetics·February 6, 2013·4 min readStudy Points to Possible Cause and Treatment for Non-familial Parkinson’sResearchers identify a protein trafficking defect within brain cells that may underlie common non-familial forms of Parkinson’s disease. The study implicates two genetic variants that disrupt protein sorting in neurons.Read More
FeaturedNeurology·February 5, 2013·3 min readStudy Confirms No Transmission of Alzheimer’s Proteins Between HumansWhile evidence suggests pathological proteins linked to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative disorders are capable of spreading from cell-to-cell within the brains of affected individuals, new research shows no evidence to support concerns that these abnormal disease proteins are “infectious” or transmitted from animals to humans or from one person to another.Read More
FeaturedNeurology·February 5, 2013·5 min readDamaged Blood Vessels Loaded with Amyloid Worsen Cognitive Impairment in Alzheimer’s DiseaseResearchers have discovered that amyloid peptides are harmful to the blood vessels that supply the brain with blood in Alzheimer's disease, thus accelerating cognitive decline by limiting oxygen-rich blood and nutrients.Read More
AutismFeatured·February 4, 2013·3 min readChildren with Autism at Significant Risk for Feeding Problems and Nutritional DeficitsA comprehensive analysis of feeding behavior in children with autism spectrum disorders indicates that these children are five times more likely to have a feeding problem, including extreme tantrums during meals, severe food selectivity and ritualistic mealtime behaviors.Read More