Blunting pain’s emotional component
Blocking the release of dynorphin, researchers restore motivation in animals experiencing pain. The findings may help in the development of new, less addictive, pain medications.... Read More...
nucleus accumbens
A Gentle Method For Unlocking the Mysteries of the Deep Brain
Researchers report EEG technology has the ability to study activity of areas deep inside the brain, such as the thalamus and nucleus accumbens. The findings will help shed new light on disorders that affect these brain regions, such as Parkinson's disease and OCD.... Read More...
Manipulating Gene Expression in Neurons with CRISPR
By optimizing neurons with CRISPR gene editing technology, researchers will have new ways to study genetic influences on brain health and disease, a new study reports. ... Read More...
Finding the Elusive Drinking ‘Brake’
Researchers have uncovered a mechanism in the BNST that senses the negative effects of alcohol and modulates the urge to drink. The study reports that when this mechanism doesn't function correctly, we lose the ability to recognize that we have had enough to drink. ... Read More...
The Unexpected Creates Reward When Listening to Music
A new study reports unexpected changes in music activates the nucleus accumbens, providing reward and helping us to learn about the music as we listen. ... Read More...
Brain Cells that Modulate Behavioral Response to Threats Identified
Researchers implicate neurons within the dorsolateral septum in the regulation of fearful behaviors in mice.... Read More...
Sleep Loss Heightens Pain Sensitivity and Dulls Brain’s Painkilling Response
Researchers report sleep deprivation intensifies and prolongs pain. ... Read More...
How Calorie Content Makes You Rethink Food Choices
A neuroimaging study reveals seeing images of food with calorie information alters the way the brain responds to the food, making the item seem less appealing.... Read More...
Your Brain on Imagination: It’s a Lot Like Reality
A new neuroimaging study reveals imagination may help people with fear or anxiety disorders overcome them. The study reports imagining a threat can alter the way it is represented in the brain.... Read More...
Dopamine’s Yin-Yang Personality: It’s an Upper and a Downer
Researchers shed light on the dual nature of dopamine, as a neurotransmitter that makes us seek pleasure and also reinforces avoidance of pain.... Read More...
Clues to Brain Changes in Depression Discovered
A new study sheds light on how the brain processes rewards and provides a deeper understanding on the neurobiology of depression.... Read More...
Dopamine Drives Early Addiction to Heroin
Researchers have identified a significant role dopamine plays in the development of heroin addiction. The study reports dopamine appears to directly cause drug reinforcement and, when dopamine neurons are silenced, mice are less likely to self administer the drug.... Read More...