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University of Cologne

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·August 23, 2024·5 min read

Two New Proteins Linked to ALS

A new study identifies two proteins that interact with a mutant FUS variant linked to familial ALS, offering a potential therapeutic target. Researchers found that inhibiting these proteins in motor neurons derived from human stem cells reduced ALS-related changes. The findings suggest that similar mechanisms may be involved in sporadic ALS, which affects most patients. Further research will explore these proteins' roles in other ALS-related genes and sporadic cases.

Neuroscience

·June 6, 2024·4 min read

Lipid Signaling in Brain Linked to Mental Disorders

Increased levels of bioactive lipids in the brain are linked to mental disorders by disrupting excitatory transmission between brain cells. Researchers found that using an inhibitor to block these lipids can restore balance and potentially treat these conditions. The study highlights a new pathway for diagnosing and treating mental illnesses.

This shows a brain as a top of a burger bun.

Featured Neuroscience

·June 2, 2024·4 min read

Brain Chemistry Sheds Light on Overeating and Memory

Fruit flies use the neurotransmitter octopamine to decide whether food memories are stored long-term or short-term. This process, influenced by energy reserves, affects future eating behavior. High glycogen levels result in stable food memories, prompting increased food intake even after fasting. The research suggests that similar mechanisms may influence overeating in humans.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·May 9, 2024·4 min read

Turn Back Time: How Our Cells’ Noise Could Unlock Youth

A new study uncovered that aging clocks, which assess biological age, do so by measuring stochastic changes in cellular processes, particularly in DNA methylation. These clocks indicate that biological age, influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors, can deviate significantly from chronological age.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 19, 2024·4 min read

Blessed Thistle Enhances Nerve Regeneration

Cnicin, a compound derived from the plant Blessed Thistle, significantly enhances nerve regeneration. The study shows that Cnicin can accelerate the growth of axons, the long fibers of nerve cells, which is crucial for the recovery of nerve function after injury.

Featured Neuroscience

·April 18, 2024·5 min read

Training Enhances Word Recognition for Efficient Reading

Researchers developed a training method that enhances the recognition of known versus unknown words, thereby improving reading efficiency. Their study employs a model based on brain behavior that functions like a filter, distinguishing known words from unfamiliar letter combinations.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·April 5, 2024·4 min read

Powering Brain Repair: Mitochondria Key to Neurogenesis

Researchers made a groundbreaking discovery about the maturation process of adult-born neurons in the brain, highlighting the critical role of mitochondrial fusion in these cells. Their study shows that as neurons develop, their mitochondria undergo dynamic changes that are crucial for the neurons' ability to form and refine connections, supporting synaptic plasticity in the adult hippocampus.

Featured Neuroscience

·February 8, 2024·5 min read

Neural Insights Reveal the Secrets of Locomotion

Researchers made a breakthrough in understanding how stick insects control their leg muscles during walking, challenging previous assumptions about motor neuron activation. Their study reveals that neurons activating the depressor muscle in a stick insect's leg receive a unique rhythmic excitation, unlike other leg muscles.

Featured Neuroscience

·September 19, 2023·4 min read

Dopamine’s Decision Role: Faster but Flawed Choices

Recent research reveals dopamine's role in the speed and accuracy of decision-making processes. When dopamine release was elevated, decisions were made faster but with increased inaccuracy.

Featured Neuroscience

·September 2, 2023·6 min read

Decoding Decision-Making: Insect Brains Are More Complex Than We Thought

The mushroom body—a key area in the brains of arthropods like insects—plays a crucial role in abstract behavioral decision-making. Contrary to the long-standing belief that insects react purely on stimulus-response, the study shows they can actually make nuanced decisions based on experiences.