A study of people learning to read braille reveals how white matter reorganizes itself across different brain regions and timeframes to meet the brain's needs.
A newly developed robotic thumb imprints how the hand is represented in the brain. Using the robotic thumb, researchers reported improvements in conducting dexterity tasks, such as building with blocks. Additionally, those who trained to use the additional thumb began to feel as though the digit was a part of their body.
Our concepts of people, objects, and events are composed of sensory impressions and actions associated with them, in addition to abstract symbol-like features.
Using transcranial alternating current stimulation, researchers were able to influence the activity of specific brain areas and manipulate the abilities processed by them. Findings suggest tACS could be used to improve, direct, and attenuate the flow of information in the brain.
Repeatedly administered tactile simulation over a sustained period of time alters neural processing of the hand area in the brain. The observable changes over time illustrate neuroplasticity and shed new light on the process of learning.
Neural activity patterns for limb movements remain stable over time. Researchers were able to record, decode, and reconstruct activity patterns from common movement skills. The findings could have immediate implications for the development of neuroprosthetics that can bypass brain injuries by inferring intended motor actions from a person's brain.
A newly developed artificial neural connection device allows new cortical sites, previously not associated with limb movements, to swiftly regain the control of a paralyzed hand.
Immune molecules produced during infection influence the social behaviors of mouse models of autism spectrum disorder. The findings may shed light on why some children on the autism spectrum experience a temporary reduction in behavioral symptoms when they have a fever.
Blood can bring more oxygen into the brains of mice following exercise as increased respiration increases oxygen levels in hemoglobin.
Parts of the prefrontal cortex and posterior parietal lobe, in addition to the somatosensory cortex, play critical roles in touch perception.
Artists who paint with their feet have finely tuned toe maps in their brains. The study opens up questions about organizational principles of the whole body system.
Isoguavacine, an old experimental compound which exclusively targets peripheral neurons, mitigates abnormal touch sensitivity in mouse models of ASD. The compound also improved body mass, reduces anxiety, and in one genetic subset of mice, prevented the development of brain abnormalities that arise from altered touch response.
