A new study reports microglia can diminish the adverse changes to neural circuitry bought on by chronic cocaine use. Read More
A new study reports gut bacteria drives the formation of cerebral cavernous malformations. Read More
Blood vessels can sense the metabolic state of nearby neurons. An imbalance of fatty acids is sensed by neural blood vessels, stimulating them to mount a stress response by loosening the blood-brain barrier. If the imbalance remains, the leaky blood-brain barrier can induce a disease state. Read More
Biological mechanisms related to sleep loss affect the immune system and trigger an inflammatory response, a new study reports. Read More
A healthy and diverse microbiome is essential for quickly clearing viral infections in the nervous system to prevent risks associated with multiple sclerosis. Mice with lower gut bacteria had weaker immune responses and were unable to eliminate viruses, leading to worsening paralysis. Those treated with antibiotics before infection had fewer microglia. Read More
Suppressing TLR4 activity following a traumatic brain injury, such as concussion, reduces excitability, and improves working memory performance up-to a month later. Read More
Researchers report repeated social defeat stress activates microglia in the medial prefrontal cortex, triggering inflammation related cytokines. This leads to impaired neural responses in the mPFC, resulting in depressive behavior. Read More
A new study links gut bacteria and the immune system to CCM, genetic disorder that can lead to seizures and strokes. Read More
New findings could lead to new treatments for brain inflammation. Read More
According to a new study, researchers were able to reduce the urge to drink alcohol in mice by blocking an immune response in the brain. The study reveals a link between the immune system and the motivation to indulge in drinking at night. Read More
