Chronic pain in mice activates Tiam1 in pyramidal neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex, increasing the number of dendritic spines and inducing synaptic plasticity. Ketamine's antidepressant effect in chronic pain is mediated by the drug blocking Tiam1-dependent maladaptive synaptic plasticity in ACC neurons.
Adding to previous research on the gut-brain axis link to Parkinson's disease, researchers discovered the gut microbiome is involved with multiple pathways in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's.
Dementia patients with a history of cancer demonstrate better cognition at dementia diagnosis than their peers with no history of cancer.
Researchers successfully transplanted genetically modified, clinical-grade pig kidneys into a brain-dead human, replacing their native kidneys. The results demonstrate how xenotransplantation could help address organ shortages.
Soft drink consumption during early adolescence predicted more aggressive behavior later in teen years. Aggressive behavior at 13 also predicted increased soft drink consumption at age 16. Soft drink consumption at 13 predicted fewer depressive symptoms, but depressive symptoms did not predict soda consumption. Findings suggest reducing soda consumption during adolescence could help curb aggressive behaviors.
Gene variants in the immune system result in sex-based vulnerabilities to autoimmune diseases and schizophrenia.
A new clinical trial is enrolling patients with severe COVID-19 symptoms to assess the effect of nitric oxide in treating the virus. Previous research found nitric oxide has antiviral properties against coronaviruses. The effect was tested and demonstrated during the SARS outbreak in the early 2000s.
Neurostimulation implants used to treat drug-resistant epilepsy also help to reduce mental health symptoms in patients.
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Sensory processing difficulties associated with ASD, ADHD, and PTSD often result in 'meltdown' behaviors. While researchers are making headway into discovering the mechanisms behind sensory dysfunction, many in society do not understand the implications of the disorder. Researchers tackle how to prevent meltdowns associated with sensory processing disorders, and consider how social inclusion can help break the stigma.
NEAT1, a noncoding RNA appears to play a significant role in memory formation.
According to researchers, the severity of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and PTSD in childhood survivors of abuse may depend upon the time the abuse first took place, how long it lasted and the severity of the abuse. Sexual abuse of females also has a more detrimental effect on mental health than in males, the study reports.
A new study reveals CBD oil significantly improves seizure frequency and other symptoms in people with treatment resistant epilepsy.