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optogenetics

Autism Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·July 14, 2020·4 min read

Autism Researchers Map Brain Circuitry of Social Preference

Study reveals how two neural circuits dictate the choice between social approach and avoidance. The network connecting the infralimbic cortex to the basolateral amygdala (BLA) impairs social behavior if there is a decrease in neural activity. Another network connecting the prelimbic cortex to the BLA similarly impairs social behavior if the neural activity is increased.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·July 6, 2020·2 min read

Optogenetic Stimulation of the Motor Cortex Successfully Induced Arm Movements in Monkeys

Researchers induced arm movements in macaque monkeys by using optogenetics to target the motor cortex.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·June 16, 2020·5 min read

The “Love Hormone” Oxytocin can also give rise to aggressive behavior

Using optogenetics, researchers were able to manipulate oxytocin producing cells in a highly precise manner. They discovered oxytocin can amplify aggression as well as social friendliness.

Electrophysiology Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·June 2, 2020·3 min read

A remote control for neurons

Researchers synthesized 3D fuzzy graphene on a nanowire template to create new material for photothermally stimulating cells.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 18, 2020·2 min read

How experiencing traumatic stress leads to aggression

Strengthened amygdala pathways increase aggression in those who have experienced trauma. The findings could lead to new treatments for PTSD.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 2, 2020·3 min read

Neural circuit that drives physical responses to emotional stress discovered

Researchers have identified a brain circuit that drives physical response to emotional stress. The circuit begins in the dorsal peduncular cortex and dorsal tenia tecta, before sending signals to the hypothalamus. The findings could help with the development of treatments for panic disorders and PTSD.

Featured Neuroscience

·April 29, 2020·5 min read

Implant-free optogenetics minimizes brain damage during neuronal stimulation

Researchers genetically engineered neurons to produce a newly developed, light-sensitive protein called SOUL. They then used optogenetic technology to shine a light through the skull and alter neural responses through an entire mouse brain.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 27, 2020·6 min read

Light-based deep brain stimulation relieves symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

Researchers use optogenetic based deep brain stimulation to help treat motor dysfunction in animal models of Parkinson's disease. The new technique provides insights into why DBS works and ways in which it can be improved on a patient-by-patient basis.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·April 7, 2020·4 min read

How serotonin balances communication within the brain

Study reveals how serotonin plays a key role in the scaling of current sensory input and outgoing brain signals.

This shows the outline of a head and a city scape

Featured Neuroscience

·April 6, 2020·5 min read

Memory cells that help us interpret new situations identified

Hippocampal neurons that store abstract memories of prior experiences activate when new, but similar events take place.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·March 11, 2020·2 min read

JNK protein triggers neurons to withdraw their synapses when stressed

Using optogenetics to inhibit the JNK protein prevented synapses from shrinking in response to stress.

Featured Neuroscience

·February 27, 2020·5 min read

How the brain forms habits

As the brain starts to develop new habits, activity in the dorsolateral striatum increases. As the activity bursts increase, the habit becomes stronger. Inhibiting neural activity with optogenetics reduces habit behaviors in mice.