Researchers identify hidden brain signals behind working memory
Artificially prolonging hippocampal sharp wave ripples improves working memory.... Read More...
optogenetics
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...
New role for sensory signals in the brain
Optogenetic stimulation causes signals in the sensory cortex to halt actions during a behavioral task, while altering signals in the motor cortex to cause mice to act more impulsively. ... Read More...
Shining lasers on mouse brains sheds light on cells central to Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia
Optogenetic stimulation of parvalbumin cells resulted in a reduction of local blood flow and volume. The findings could shed new light on the neurobiological underpinnings of Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.... Read More...
Dopamine conducts prefrontal cortex ensembles
Dopamine activation controls the ensemble activity of neurons and increases oscillatory activity in the prefrontal cortex.... Read More...
How the brain fights off fears that return to haunt us
Newly identified 'extinction neurons' in the hippocampus suppress fearful memories when activated, and allow the memories to return when deactivated. The findings may provide new treatment avenues for PTSD, phobias, and anxiety.... Read More...
How Attention Helps the Brain Perceive an Object
Low-frequency optogenetic stimulation of the visual region of the brain impairs an animal's ability to make fine sensory discriminations. ... Read More...
Scientists hunt down the brain circuit responsible for alcohol cravings
Optogenetic inactivation of CRF neurons in the central nucleus of the amygdala decreases escalation of alcohol consumption and intensity of withdrawal in rodent models of alcoholism. The findings suggest a potential target for treating excessive drinking in alcohol use disorder.... Read More...
Altered Brain Activity Patterns of Parkinson’s Captured in Mice
Researchers have pinpointed how brain activity changes in mouse models of Parkinson's disease, providing clues as to what may drive symptoms of the disease in humans. ... Read More...