FeaturedNeuroscience·January 9, 2025·5 min readPush-and-Pull Signals Direct Neuron Migration in the Developing BrainScientists have uncovered how developing neurons migrate from the germinal zone, a process critical for proper brain circuit formation. They identified a "push-pull" system where the guidance molecule Netrin-1 repels differentiated neurons, while the ubiquitin ligase Siah2 prevents premature migration by degrading essential proteins.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 10, 2024·3 min readReprogrammed Brain Cells Could Restore Damaged CircuitsScientists have successfully reprogrammed astroglia, a type of brain support cell, into neurons that mimic specific interneurons critical for brain function. By modifying the Ascl1 protein, they increased its efficiency in converting astroglia to neuron-like cells, opening new possibilities for regenerative treatments for brain disorders such as epilepsy.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·November 4, 2024·7 min read16 Nerve Cell Types Identified in Human TouchResearchers identified 16 distinct types of nerve cells involved in human touch and compared them with those in mice and macaques, showing both shared and unique traits. The study reveals unexpected complexities in how nerve cells respond to stimuli, suggesting a sensory system that integrates multiple types of sensations.Read More
AutismFeaturedNeuroscience·October 9, 2024·5 min readNeuron Density Differences in Autistic Children’s BrainsNew research reveals that children with autism have varying neuron densities in certain brain regions compared to their peers. Using advanced imaging from the ABCD study, scientists observed lower neuron density in regions associated with memory and problem-solving, while regions like the amygdala showed higher neuron density.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·September 30, 2024·6 min readNew Brain Mapping Tool Reveals Detailed Neuronal ConnectionsScientists have developed a new brain-mapping tool called START, which combines transcriptomics and viral tracing to map the connections between specific neuronal subtypes with unprecedented detail. This technology allows researchers to identify distinct patterns of connectivity in inhibitory neurons within the cerebral cortex, providing a blueprint of the brain’s circuits.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·September 4, 2024·5 min readHow Astrocytes Can Become Nerve CellsA new study reveals that astrocytes, a type of brain cell, can transform into nerve cells through changes in DNA methylation. Researchers discovered that astrocytes in certain brain regions have a unique methylation pattern, allowing them to generate nerve cells.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·August 14, 2024·3 min read34 Neuron Subtypes Linked to AddictionResearchers identified 34 distinct subtypes of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region crucial for reward and addiction. This discovery challenges previous views of MSNs as a homogeneous group, revealing a complex diversity with potential implications for understanding addiction and developing targeted therapies. The study suggests these findings may be conserved across species, offering insights into human brain function.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·August 5, 2024·5 min readNew Tool Rapidly Tracks Psychedelic Effects in Brain NeuronsResearchers developed a rapid, noninvasive tool called CaST that tracks neurons and biomolecules activated by psychedelic drugs. This new method allows researchers to observe the cellular processes responsible for the neuroplastic effects of psychedelics, offering insights into treatments for brain disorders like depression and PTSD.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·April 23, 2024·5 min readNew Tool Maps Brain Signals with Unprecedented ClarityResearchers developed an innovative chemical tool to explore how signals like dopamine and epinephrine interact with neurons via G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). This new tool allows for precise detection of neuromodulators across various brain regions with high spatial resolution.Read More
FeaturedNeuroscience·April 10, 2024·4 min readBridging Brain Circuits with Lab-Grown Neural NetworksResearchers successfully connected lab-grown brain tissues, mimicking the complex networks found in the human brain. This novel method involves linking “neural organoids” with axonal bundles, enabling the study of interregional brain connections and their role in human cognitive functions.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·April 8, 2024·4 min readRevolutionizing Neuron Observation for Disease InsightA new neuron labeling technology, NeuM, has been developed, offering unprecedented insights into the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. NeuM enables selective, high-resolution visualization of neuronal membranes, allowing for the detailed monitoring of neuronal changes in real-time.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·March 26, 2024·6 min readThe Genetic Secrets of Neuron FormationResearchers illuminated the pivotal role of the protein MEIS2 in brain development, particularly in the differentiation of inhibitory projection neurons, crucial for motion control and decision-making. This protein, in conjunction with DLX5, activates specific genes that guide the development of these neurons.Read More
