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UT El Paso

·December 3, 2024·5 min read

Aversion Shapes Addiction Risk in Early Drug Use

New research reveals that initial reactions to unpleasant drug experiences, like bitterness or discomfort, may predict susceptibility to addiction. In a rat study, individual responses to a bitter-tasting cue paired with cocaine varied widely, with some avoiding the drug entirely and others increasing consumption over time.

This shows a woman drinking with friends.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·August 6, 2024·6 min read

Social Drinking Activates Dopamine and Elevates Mood

New research reveals why alcohol makes people feel happier in social settings but not when drinking alone. Using fruit flies, scientists discovered that dopamine in the brain plays a key role in amplifying the euphoric effects of alcohol during social interactions.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·November 21, 2023·4 min read

Used Coffee Grounds Hold Potential Key to Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases

Researchers found that Carbon Quantum Dots (CACQDs) derived from used coffee grounds could protect brain cells from damage caused by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. CACQDs showed neuroprotective effects in various models, including Parkinson's caused by pesticide exposure. These CACQDs have the potential to address the underlying causes of neurodegenerative disorders, rather than just managing symptoms.

Featured Neuroscience

·May 24, 2023·5 min read

Navigating the Brain’s Glucose Map

Researchers located specific brain regions responsive to changes in blood sugar levels. Over 13 years, the team, using detailed microscopic analysis, identified glucose-sensitive cell populations in the brain and meticulously charted their locations in an open-source brain atlas.

Featured Neuroscience

·February 12, 2021·3 min read

Brain Discovery May Lead to Solutions for Overeating

Neurons in the infralimbic cortex control the link between food cues and behavioral actions, such as overeating or bad food choices. When these neurons are regulated, the rat models consumed fewer treats.