FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·May 22, 2025·6 min readCRISPR Delivers RNA to Repair Neurons Right Where It’s NeededResearchers have developed a new CRISPR-based technology that transports RNA to exact locations within neurons, where it can trigger repair and regrowth—offering hope for treating neurological diseases and injuries. Unlike traditional CRISPR tools that edit DNA, this system repurposes CRISPR-Cas13 to act like a “mailman,” carrying RNA to damaged sites using built-in molecular zip codes.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·May 9, 2025·3 min readOxygen Boost Sparks Early Brain GrowthA new study reveals that raising oxygen tension during weeks four to six of brain organoid development significantly promotes neurogenesis, guided by the oxygen-binding protein neuroglobin. Using cerebral organoids and cutting-edge imaging, researchers monitored internal oxygen levels and linked their changes to key stages in early brain development.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·April 11, 2025·6 min readHidden Neural Stem Cells May Hold Key to Brain RegenerationScientists have identified a previously unknown type of neural stem cell (pNSC) that exists outside the brain and spinal cord, overturning decades of neuroscience dogma. These peripheral neural stem cells, discovered in tissues like the lung and tail of mice, share key properties with brain-derived neural stem cells, including the ability to self-renew and differentiate into neurons.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·February 8, 2025·5 min readStem Cells in the Brain Use Childlike Signals to Trigger RegenerationScientists have discovered that neural stem cells (NSCs) receive constant feedback from their daughter cells, influencing whether they remain dormant or activate to form new neurons and glia. This parent-child relationship helps regulate brain regeneration and repair.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·January 7, 2025·4 min readUnlocking Spinal Cord Regeneration: Astrocytes Lead the WaySpinal cord injuries (SCI) are challenging to treat due to the limited regenerative capacity of the central nervous system. A new study reveals that while ependymal cells in the spinal cord show minimal repair potential, astrocytes can transdifferentiate into oligodendrocytes, aiding in remyelination.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·December 5, 2024·5 min readAdult Neurogenesis Fuels Verbal Learning and MemoryAdult neurogenesis, the creation of new brain cells, supports verbal learning and memory. Using brain tissue from epilepsy patients, researchers discovered a direct link between fewer immature brain cells and cognitive decline, particularly in verbal learning and memory.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·November 27, 2024·4 min readKey Protein Found to Guide Neural Development and Cell IdentityResearchers have uncovered the crucial role of a protein subunit, INST10, in guiding pluripotent stem cells toward becoming neural cells during early development. The study found that diminished INST10 levels caused cells to lose neural identity and shift toward other fates, such as mesenchymal or intestinal cells.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 12, 2024·8 min readExercise Spurs Nerve Growth Through Biochemical and Physical ImpactResearchers found that exercise promotes neuron growth through both biochemical signals (myokines) and physical stretching. Muscle cells, when contracted, release myokines that boost neuron growth and maturity.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·October 24, 2024·6 min readYamanaka Factors Can Reverse Neuronal AgingYamanaka factors can reverse aging in brain neurons, improving synaptic connections, metabolism, and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Researchers introduced the Yamanaka factors into neurons of adult mice, finding that this process rejuvenated the cells without negative side effects, even enhancing motor and social behaviors.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·October 2, 2024·6 min readTargeting Glucose May Spark NeurogenesisNeural stem cells, which create new neurons in the brain, become less active with age due to elevated glucose levels. Researchers found that by knocking out the glucose transporter gene GLUT4 in older mice, they could significantly increase the production of new neurons.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·July 8, 2024·3 min readGlial Cells Reprogrammed to Neurons for Brain RepairResearchers have discovered how glial cells can be reprogrammed into neurons through epigenetic modifications, offering hope for treating neurological disorders. This reprogramming involves complex molecular mechanisms, including the transcription factor Neurogenin2 and the newly identified protein YingYang1, which opens chromatin for reprogramming. The study reveals how coordinated epigenome changes drive this process, potentially leading to new therapies for brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases.Read More
FeaturedNeurosciencePsychology·May 20, 2024·6 min readExercise Aids Memory Erasure in PTSDIncreased neuron formation in the hippocampus, stimulated by exercise or genetic manipulation, helps mice forget traumatic or drug-associated memories. This process involves rewiring neural circuits, disrupting the recall of fear memories. These findings offer potential new approaches for treating mental health conditions like PTSD and drug addiction.Read More