Latest

optogenetics

Featured Neuroscience

·February 18, 2021·7 min read

Light and Genetic Probes Untangle Dynamics of Brain Blood Flow

Researchers use two-photon imaging and optogenetics to isolate and study brain capillaries in animal models.

This diagram shows how the molecule helps to image synapses

Electrophysiology Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·February 9, 2021·4 min read

New “Molecular” Tool Helps Shed Light on Individual Synapses in Brain Cells

A newly developed light-activated protein allows researchers to study single synapses of a neuron.

This shows a statue of a head with its face facing inward

Electrophysiology Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 16, 2020·6 min read

Brain Circuitry Underlying Dissociative Experiences Identified

Researchers have identified a key neural circuit that plays a role in dissociation, a phenomenon in which people can feel disconnected from their bodies and reality.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·September 9, 2020·3 min read

The Neurons That Connect Stress, Insomnia, and the Immune System

Researchers have identified a neural circuit responsible for inducing insomnia associated with stress. The same neural circuit also induces changes in the immune system.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·September 8, 2020·4 min read

What Makes Memories So Detailed and Enduring?

Researchers have identified a new mechanism of learning that stabilizes memory and reduces interference between different memories.

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.