Researchers have identified how specific genetic mutations cause ALS. The pathway, they believe, may also be responsible for the development of frontotemporal dementia. Read More
Prenatal exposure to THC makes dopamine neurons hyperactive and increases the sensitivity to the behavioral effects of the compound during pre-adolescence. This may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia later in life. However, treatment with pregnenolone, a drug under clinical trials for ASD, cannabis use disorder, and schizophrenia, appears to correct the brain abnormalities and behavioral problems associated with prenatal cannabis exposure. Read More
Skin-related stem cells may be key to helping restore the myelin sheath in patients with multiple sclerosis. Using mouse models, researchers discovered melanocyte stem cells can, under the right conditions, function as cells that create myelin. Read More
Exposure to allergic inflammation, while in utero, increased mast cell and microglia activation, leading to masculinization of dendritic spine density in the preoptic area of females. During adulthood, females exposed to allergic inflammation showed an increase in more masculine behaviors. Read More
The mGlu2 receptor plays a critical role in the effectiveness of ketamine for treating depression. Read More
A new study sheds light on how the brain processes rewards and provides a deeper understanding on the neurobiology of depression. Read More
A new study reports mast cells play a key role in determining sex differences in the developing brain. Read More
Using optogenetics, researchers have identified a causal association between dopamine and avoidance behavior linked to pain and fear. Read More
Researchers have identified a mechanism that may explain what is commonly known as the Mozart Effect, where sound input is linked to developing cognitive function. Read More
Researchers have identified a link between traumatic brain injury and intestinal changes. A new study reports the intestinal changes may contribute to increased risk of developing infections and could worsen brain damage in TBI patients. Read More
A study in Sleep reports on a link between cognition, sleep and a metabolite called kynurenic acid. The metabolite has previously been linked to schizophrenia. Read More
Researchers have identified a gene that appears to be implicated in depression in both animal and human models of the disorder. The gene, Slc6a15 can either amplify or reduce stress, depending on its level of activity. Read More
