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...
striatum
New quantum material could warn of neurological disease
A new quantum sensor is able to automatically receive hydrogen when placed beneath a brain slice. Researchers say this could be the first step in creating a pathway that builds a computer device to store and transfer real memories, in essence, allowing for the 'upload' of memory. ... Read More...
Smoking and Alcohol: Double Trouble for the Brain
A new study reports those with alcohol addiction who also smoke may be at an increased risk of neural damage. The study revealed higher levels of oxidative stress in the hippocampus, and a a decrease in neurotrophic factor in the striatum and frontal cortex in rats exposed to both alcohol and tobacco.... 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...
Brain Biomarkers Identify Those at Risk of Severe PTSD Symptoms
Researchers report the striatum and amygdala are less able to track changes in threat levels in those with severe PTSD. The findings may serve as a biomarker to evaluate who may be at greater risk of PTSD symptoms.... Read More...
Researchers Unexpectedly Reprogram Mature Neurons in Mice
Researchers have made a surprise discovery that could help provide treatment options for a range of conditions from Parkinson's disease to depression. Researching how to transform supportive brain cells into neurons, the scientists unexpectedly transformed mature inhibitory striatal neurons into dopamine producing neurons.... Read More...
Researchers Show Change in Beliefs Associated with Dopamine in Brain
A new brain imaging study reveals how the midbrain and striatum, two key areas of the dopamine system, become more active when a person updates their beliefs about the world around them.... Read More...
Why You Can’t Decide What to Order For Lunch
A new study reveals why, when the brain is faced with an overwhelming number of similar options, it struggles to make a decision.... Read More...
Exercise Generates New Neurons and Improves Cognition in Alzheimer’s: Mouse Study
Researchers report exercise can promote adult hippocampal neurogenesis and improve cognition in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. The study identifies ways to mimic the beneficial effects of experience through pharmacological and gene therapy. ... Read More...
Does Neuroscience Hold the Key to Understanding the Criminal Mind?
According to a new study those with higher criminal tendencies choose to take risks and gamble more than law abiding citizens.... Read More...
‘Compulsivity Circuit’ in Heavy Drinkers Identified
Researchers identify a driving network for compulsivity in those with alcohol use disorders. The study reports heavy drinkers have more activity in the prefronal cortex, insular and striatum, areas of the brain critical for reward and decision making.... Read More...
Getting to the Roots of Pessimism
Researchers shed light on the role the caudate nucleus plays in pessimism. The study reports stimulating this area of the brain generates a negative outlook that clouds decision making. ... Read More...