Examining the brains of frequent cannabis users, researchers have identified a pattern of connectivity related to craving the substance. The findings add weight to the idea that brain regions do not work in isolation, but via the connectivity of multiple networks that signal to each other depending on state and need. Brain connectivity during cannabis cravings is not static but has fluctuations in connection patterns between the central executive network and nucleus accumbens.
Opioid use disorder affects genes associated with proinflammatory immune molecule encoding and genes associated with remodeling the extracellular matrix, suggesting the connection between neurons may be altered as a result of opioid use. Additionally, those with OUD have higher levels of microglia in the brain.
Neuroimaging reveals the higher density of cells in the nucleus accumbens is associated with a larger waist circumference in children.
A neuroimaging study reports connections between certain brain regions are amplified in teens who are more prone to taking risks.
White matter connectivity between the auditory processing areas and brain areas associated with reward may explain why we like, or dislike music.
Researchers implicate the hippocampus and nucleus accumbens in decisions that call for delayed gratification.
Deep brain stimulation to the nucleus accumbens can help prevent impulsive behaviors, researchers report in PNAS.
Study finds mice show sensitivity to two different types of regret, and the different thought processes stem from different parts of the brain. Researchers also identified a genetic marker that predisposes maladaptive stress response traits and vulnerability to depression was linked to sensitivity to one type of regret.
Researchers report lesions within a brain network involved in moral decision making can contribute to criminal behavior.
Researchers report brain alterations associated with heightened feelings of negative emotion and alienation in people who have a dependence on cannabis.
Researchers identify a central gatekeeping system they believe is implicated in both chronic pain and tinnitus.
A new study sheds light on how the brain processes rewards and provides a deeper understanding on the neurobiology of depression.