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synapses

The microscope image shows nerve cells in the mouse brain that have been labeled with a modified rabies virus.

·June 27, 2013·4 min read

High-Resolution Mapping Technique Uncovers Underlying Circuit Architecture of the Brain

Using an innovative brain-tracing technique, researchers discover a way to 'untangle' neural networks. The findings offer insight into how specific brain regions are connected.

This is a coronal slice of the cerebral cortex.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 26, 2013·2 min read

How Visual Attention Affects the Brain

New research shows visual attention increases the efficiency of signaling into the cerebral cortex.

Electrophysiology Featured

·June 19, 2013·2 min read

What Do Memories Look Like?

Researchers engineered microscopic probes which light up synapses in living neurons by attaching fluorescent markers onto synaptic proteins without affecting the neuron's ability to function.

The image shows the areas of the brain affected by schizophrenia.

Featured Psychology

·June 17, 2013·2 min read

Psychiatric Disorders Linked to a Protein Involved in the Formation of Long-Term Memories

Researchers have discovered a neural pathway in which the brain controls a specific molecule, connected to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia which is also critical to the formation of long term memory.

The image is a photomicrograph of the nerve cell. The caption best describes the image.

Featured Neurology

·June 17, 2013·4 min read

Researchers Develop Novel Drug That Reverses Loss of Brain Connections in Models of Alzheimer’s

Researchers have developed an experimental drug, NitroMemantine, to boost brain synapses lost in Alzheimer's disease. The drug stops the destructive cascade of brain changes which destroy connections between neurons that leads to memory loss and cognitive decline.

The image shows the sound localization synapses in the calyx of held.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 14, 2013·3 min read

A Turbocharger for Nerve Cells

A new study has discovered a key mechanism that boosts the signalling functions of neurons in the brain.

The image shows Arc immunohistochemical staining of the rat (Rattus norvegicus) dentate gyrus..

Featured Neuroscience

·June 10, 2013·4 min read

Scientists Map Process by Which Brain Cells Form Long-Term Memories

Researchers have discovered how the Arc protein regulates neuronal activity, providing clues into the brain's ability to form long-term memories.

Autism Featured Genetics

·June 7, 2013·4 min read

Over Produced Autism Gene Alters Synapses, Affects Learning and Behavior in Mice

When manipulated in two lines of transgenic mice, neuroligin 1, a gene linked to ASD, produced mature adults with irreversible defects which affected either learning or social interaction. The findings could have implications for potential gene therapies for autism.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 29, 2013·3 min read

Neuroscientists Discover New Phase of Synaptic Development

Researchers discover a new phase of synaptic development. The finding could lead to a better understanding of how learning and memory occur.

The image shows an NDMA receptor in action.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 28, 2013·3 min read

Scientists Advance Understanding of Brain Receptor; Could Help Fight Neurological Disorders

A new study provides clues into how the function of the most common NMDA receptor subtypes may be manipulated for clinical benefit. NMDA receptors have been implicated in a number of neurological and psychological disease, from Alzheimer's to schizophrenia.