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University of British Columbia

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·June 6, 2019·3 min read

12 genes at the root of multiple sclerosis identified

12 genes associated with familial multiple sclerosis have been identified. The findings provide a molecular rationale for the chronic inflammation, demyelination and neurodegeneration associated with MS. Identifying new genetic targets could help with the development of novel treatments to prevent multiple sclerosis in those with a genetic risk.

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·May 30, 2019·4 min read

‘Ecstasy’ shows promise for post-traumatic stress treatment

MDMA shows promise for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. Combining the use of Ecstasy with psychotherapy treatments resulted in a reduction of PTSD symptoms after just one session. 54% of the study participants no longer met the PTSD criteria after two sessions. Patients also reported improvements in depression symptoms.

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·May 1, 2019·3 min read

Lure of the ‘loot box’ looks a lot like gambling

Loot boxes, a common reward in modern video games, may drive gambling like behaviors in adult gamers, researchers report.

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·February 22, 2019·4 min read

How Blood Vessels Protect the Brain During Inflammation

A new study reveals how blood vessels help protect the brain during inflammation. The findings could help in the development of new treatments for neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases.

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·October 29, 2018·4 min read

Casino Lights and Sounds Encourage Risky Decision Making

A new study reveals sensory cues within a casino may directly influence a player's decision to make more risky choices.

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·October 14, 2018·4 min read

Previous Motherhood Could Affect Hormone Therapy’s Ability to Prevent Memory Loss

A new study reports mother rats who received hormone replacement therapy responded worse to memory and spatial learning tasks than those who had not given birth. Researchers suggest a woman's reproductive history could impact how the brain responds to hormones later in life.

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·October 2, 2018·4 min read

Child Abuse May Leave Molecular Scars on Victims

Researchers identify distinctive methylation differences in 12 regions of the male genome between those who had faced abuse as children and those who did not. Scientists say the discovery of this biomarker could be used as a tool for criminal investigations into child abuse.

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·September 18, 2018·4 min read

Are We Hardwired For Laziness? Brain Must Work Hard to Avoid Sloth

Researchers explore the exercise paradox, the feeling of wanting to become more physically active, but despite our best intentions, people actually become less active. The study reports our brains may simply be wired to want to conserve energy.

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·September 4, 2018·4 min read

Concussion Loosens Insulation Around Brain Cells

A new study reports two weeks following a concussion, myelin surrounding neurons appear to loosen. However, the loosening returns to normal two months after a concussion, researchers say.

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·June 26, 2018·3 min read

Anger Often Overlooked as Feature of Postnatal Mood Disorder

A new study reveals anger appears to be a significant feature of postnatal mood disorder. Researchers recommend doctors screen for anger, in addition to depression and anxiety during the postpartum period.

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·June 5, 2018·3 min read

Psychedelic Drug Use Associated with Reduced Partner Violence in Men

Men who have prior experience with psychedelic drugs have a reduced likelihood of engaging in violence against their partner, a new study reports.

Featured Genetics Neurology Open Neuroscience Articles

·March 7, 2018·3 min read

Strict Eating Schedule Can Lower Huntington’s Protein: Mouse Study

Restricting access to food within a strict time frame stimulates autophagy and lowers levels of the huntingtin protein in the brain, a new mouse study reveals.