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pregnancy

This shows a pregnant woman drinking wine.

·October 10, 2024·6 min read

Early Alcohol Exposure Leaves Molecular Signature in Fetal Placenta

A recent study shows that alcohol exposure in the earliest stages of pregnancy can lead to detectable molecular changes in the late-gestation placenta, even influencing gene expression through DNA methylation. These changes, particularly in growth and neurotransmitter pathways, could have lasting effects on fetal development, potentially impacting future health. Interestingly, the impact varies by sex, affecting growth-related genes in males and serotonin-related genes in females.

This shows a pregnant woman and cannabis plants.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 4, 2024·5 min read

Long-term Impact of Prenatal Cannabis Exposure Explored

A study examining the effects of prenatal exposure to synthetic cannabinoids in rats found that the drug leads to long-term health issues in their offspring. Male rats showed an increased sensitivity to CO2, making them more prone to panic-like behavior, while females exhibited cardiovascular problems like hypertension and tachycardia.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·September 27, 2024·4 min read

Cannabis Use in Pregnancy Alters Genes in Developing Brain

New research has found that cannabis use during pregnancy can cause molecular changes in the genes of exposed children, impacting brain development. The study identified significant DNA alterations in genes related to neurodevelopment, suggesting a direct link between prenatal cannabis exposure and developmental issues.

This shows a cartoon of a pregnant woman resting in bed.

Featured Neuroscience

·September 26, 2024·3 min read

Poor Sleep in Pregnancy Linked to Developmental Risks

New research suggests that pregnant women who get less than seven hours of sleep per night may have a higher risk of having children with neurodevelopmental delays. The study, involving over 7,000 mother-child pairs, found that children of mothers with short sleep duration (SSD) were more likely to experience delays in cognitive, behavioral, and motor skills.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 22, 2024·4 min read

Brain Activity May Help Predict Risk of Postpartum Depression

New research suggests that increased activity in the brain's amygdala during pregnancy may indicate a higher risk of postpartum depression. A study comparing pregnant and non-pregnant women found that those with higher amygdala activity struggled more with emotional regulation and reported more depression symptoms.

This shows the outline of a woman and a brain.

Featured Neuroscience

·September 21, 2024·5 min read

Pregnancy Dramatically Reshapes the Brain

A new study provides the first detailed map of brain changes during pregnancy, showing significant neuroplasticity in adults. Researchers found a decrease in gray matter volume and a temporary increase in white matter in a pregnant brain.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 21, 2024·5 min read

Probiotic During Pregnancy May Boost Fetal Brain Development

A study in mice shows that the probiotic Bifidobacterium breve, when taken by mothers during pregnancy, enhances fetal brain development by improving nutrient transport and growth processes. The findings suggest that altering the maternal gut microbiome with probiotics could be a non-pharmaceutical strategy to support healthy fetal growth, particularly in cases of fetal growth restriction. Further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans and explore how probiotics interact with other gut bacteria during pregnancy.

This shows a woman, leaves, and a brain.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 5, 2024·6 min read

Prenatal Cannabis Use Impacts Brain Development

A new study suggests prenatal cannabis exposure may influence long-term brain development and mental health. Researchers used data from the ABCD Study to examine neuroimaging of children exposed to cannabis in utero.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 30, 2024·4 min read

Prenatal Amphetamine Exposure Impacts Brain Development

A new study used C. elegans to study the long-term effects of amphetamine exposure during embryogenesis, finding significant alterations in dopamine-related genes and proteins. These changes lead to increased sensitivity to amphetamines in adulthood, highlighting potential risks for humans. The study emphasizes the need for careful consideration of amphetamine use during pregnancy due to its lasting impact on brain function.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 26, 2024·7 min read

Gut Bacteria Gas Linked to Pregnancy Hormone, Mood Regulation, and PPD

Researchers discovered that gut bacteria produce a hormone involved in pregnancy and postpartum depression treatment by modifying steroids in bile. This research highlights the microbiome's role as an endocrine organ influencing human health.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·May 11, 2024·3 min read

Mom’s Stress Hormone Shapes Child’s IQ

Elevated cortisol levels during the third trimester of pregnancy are linked to lower IQ scores in 7-year-old boys, but not in girls. In contrast, higher urine cortisone levels during pregnancy were associated with improved IQ scores in girls.

This shows a pregnant woman surrounded by smoke.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 7, 2024·7 min read

Combined Cannabis and Nicotine Use Amplifies Pregnancy Risks

A new study highlights the compounded risks of using both cannabis and nicotine during pregnancy. The research reveals that simultaneous use of these substances significantly increases the chances of adverse newborn outcomes, such as preterm delivery, small gestational size, and infant mortality.