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UC Davis

·November 2, 2024·6 min read

Amygdala Cells Linked to Anxiety

Researchers have identified specific cell types in the amygdala linked to anxiety, revealing potential new targets for treatment. By analyzing gene expression in human and macaque brains, scientists discovered clusters of cells with unique roles, including “gatekeeper” cells that help control emotional responses.

Autism Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·October 24, 2024·6 min read

In-Utero Gene Editing Could Halt Neurodevelopmental Disorders

A new study has developed a breakthrough biomedical tool that can deliver genetic material to edit faulty genes in fetal brain cells. Tested in mice, this technology offers the potential to stop the progression of neurodevelopmental conditions, like Angelman and Rett syndromes, before birth.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·October 22, 2024·5 min read

Happy Partners Help Reduce Stress in Older Adults

Having a happy intimate partner can lower stress levels in older adults by reducing the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. Couples with higher relationship satisfaction experience an even stronger effect, suggesting that positive emotions in relationships act as a buffer against stress.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 5, 2024·5 min read

New Tool Rapidly Tracks Psychedelic Effects in Brain Neurons

Researchers developed a rapid, noninvasive tool called CaST that tracks neurons and biomolecules activated by psychedelic drugs. This new method allows researchers to observe the cellular processes responsible for the neuroplastic effects of psychedelics, offering insights into treatments for brain disorders like depression and PTSD.

Autism Featured Neuroscience

·May 23, 2024·6 min read

Key Brain Differences in Autistic Boys and Girls Identified

Researchers discovered significant sex-specific differences in brain development between autistic boys and girls aged 2-13. The study found that autistic girls have a thicker cortex at age 3 and faster cortical thinning into middle childhood compared to boys.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·March 19, 2024·4 min read

Keto Diet Delays Alzheimer’s Memory Loss

A ketogenic diet significantly postpones the onset of Alzheimer’s-related memory decline in mice, a phase akin to human mild cognitive impairment preceding Alzheimer’s disease. Key findings highlight the molecule beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) as instrumental in this protective effect, showing a nearly seven-fold increase in mice on the diet and improving synaptic function critical for memory.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·January 23, 2024·5 min read

Rumination Alters Brain’s Response to Social Rejection

A new study reveals that adolescent girls who ruminate show distinct brain activity patterns when facing social rejection. Using fMRI scans, the research demonstrates increased activity in brain areas related to self-concept and emotional states in girls prone to rumination.

Featured Neuroscience

·January 4, 2024·7 min read

Low B12 and High Folic Acid Impacts Fetal Brain Development

New research in mice suggests that too much folic acid, a synthetic form of folate, may impact brain development. Imbalances in folic acid and vitamin B12 can alter neural development, raising questions about dietary fortification.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience Psychology

·November 29, 2023·4 min read

Personality Traits: A Surprising Factor in Dementia Risk

Researchers revealed that certain personality traits, such as conscientiousness, extraversion, and positive affect, can reduce the likelihood of a dementia diagnosis. This comprehensive analysis involved over 44,000 people, with 1,703 developing dementia.

This shows little girls dressed as Disney princesses.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·September 8, 2023·6 min read

Disney Princesses Boost Kids’ Confidence and Play Diversity

A recent study suggests that a favorite Disney princess can positively influence young children's body confidence and diversify their play. The research classified princesses by body type, noting that kids who favored "average-bodied" princesses, like Moana, had heightened body esteem a year later and were more exploratory in their play.

This shows an abstract image of a man's head.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 24, 2023·5 min read

Is Our Free Will Shaping What We Truly See?

A new study delves into the enigma of human voluntary attention. While both individuals might observe the same scenario, their attention could differ based on personal choices influenced by free will.

This shows an older person holding a plant.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 21, 2023·3 min read

Give and Grow: Volunteering Linked to Better Cognitive Health in Seniors

Volunteering can significantly improve cognitive function in older adults, suggests new research. The study, which included a diverse group of 2,476 seniors, linked volunteering activities to better executive function and episodic memory.