Negative memory storage affects depression symptoms
Enhanced reactivation of negative memory engrams may be an important cellular mechanism behind the cognitive symptoms of depression.... Read More...
optogenetics
The new field of sonogenetics uses sound waves to control the behavior of brain cells
A new technology known as sonogenetics can control neural activity by using sound frequencies. The technology could be used to non-invasively treat a range of neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.... Read More...
Scientists can now manipulate brain cells using smartphone
A soft neural implant that can be controlled by a smartphone is capable of drug delivery and optogenetics. The technology could speed up efforts to uncover the causes of neurological and psychological disorders.... Read More...
Hypothalamus pathway drives defense behaviors
A newly discovered pathway that links the hypothalamus and midbrain drives innate defense behaviors. The findings could have implications for developing therapies for anxiety disorders.... Read More...
Stimulating neurons to induce particular perceptions in mice’s minds
Using optogenetics, researchers stimulated neurons in the visual cortex of mice to induce illusory images in the animals' minds.... Read More...
Researchers controlled the behavior in a mouse’s brain with single-cell precision
Using holographic optogenetics, researchers were able to control visual behavior in mice by activating neurons in the visual cortex.... Read More...
Settling the debate on serotonin’s role in sleep
Serotonin produced by the raphe is critical for sleep in both mice and zebrafish. The firing of neurons in the raphe and the release of serotonin may help the brain build up better sleep pressure. The results may explain why some sleep-related side effects of antidepressants increase serotonin in the brain.... Read More...
Researchers identify hidden brain signals behind working memory
Artificially prolonging hippocampal sharp wave ripples improves working memory.... Read More...
Proof it’s possible to enhance or suppress memories
Using optogenetics to stimulate different areas of the hippocampus has the ability to enhance or suppress memories in mice. The findings could have implications for suppressing memories associated with traumatic events in PTSD, and also in enhancing cognitive ability or improving memory for those with neurodegenerative diseases, in the future. ... Read More...
The insular cortex processes, and drives learning from pain
Using optogenetics to 'switch off' the insular cortex in mice experiencing a painful event resulted in a less fearful reaction to pain. The ability of the mice to learn avoidance from the pain event was also reduced. ... Read More...
Neurons that encode sweetness identified: Mouse study
SatB2PBN-expressing neurons in the parabrachial nucleus play a key role in processing and encoding sweet tastes. The SatB2PBN neurons relay sweet taste signals from the gustatory thalamus to the cortex in mouse models.... Read More...
General anesthesia hijacks sleep circuitry to knock you out
Study reveals anesthesia activated neurons have been discovered in the hypothalamus. Activation of AANs promotes slow-wave sleep, extending the effects of anesthesia, while inhibition of AANs shortens the duration of general anesthetics and disrupts natural sleep.... Read More...