Cocaine use supports the growth of γ-proteobacteria, a common gut bacteria that consume glycine. As glycine levels become depleted mouse models exhibit a higher response to cocaine with abnormal behaviors including increased drug-induced locomotion and drug-seeking behaviors.
Norepinephrine facilitates fear processing by stimulating a population of inhibitory neurons in the amygdala, generating repetitive bursting patterns of electrical activity. This activity changes the frequency of oscillations in the amygdala from resting state to aroused state, promoting the formation of fear memories.
Norepinephrine is locally regulated in the visual cortex. More norepinephrine is released when and where visual information is processed.
A new study reveals the role the locus coeruleus plays in learning, behavior, and mental health.
Study sheds light on the brain chemistry involved in attention loss when a person drinks alcohol.
Behavioral changes in those with T.gondii infection could be linked to lower levels of norepinephrine. Norepinephrine also controls inflammation. Both neuroinflammation and norepinephrine are associated with a range of psychiatric disorders including schizophrenia and ADHD.
Using magnetic nanoparticles, researchers were able to stimulate the adrenal glands of rodents and control the release of stress-related hormones. The approach could be applied to humans to treat hormone-related disorders.
Study reveals a link between the nervous system and stem cells that regenerate pigment in hair follicles. When stressed, norepinephrine from the sympathetic nervous system causes melanocyte stem cells to activate excessively. The stem cells all convert into pigment-producing cells, prematurely depleting the reservoir. The findings explain the cellular and molecular links between stress and premature hair graying.
Microglia play a critical role in reorganizing neural connections, fighting infections, and repairing damage to neurons while we sleep.
Scientists have developed a new, non-invasive stress test that uses ultraviolet light to measure stress hormone levels in bodily fluids.
Unexpected rewards boost memories of specific events. The findings may have implications for treating memory problems associated with depression.
Researchers have identified a new type of depression. The findings may help explain why some people are resistant to current treatments for depressive disorders. The study reports on how a specific protein, RGS8, plays a role in depressive behaviors.