Sex and Aggression Controlled by Cold Sensor in Brain: Mouse Study
Embedding a molecule called TRPM8 into the surface of some cells helps reduce aggression and sexual appetite in mice, a new study reports. ... Read More...
ventral tegmental area
Nicotine Exposure During Pregnancy Alters Dopamine Neurons and Genes in Newborns
A new study reports chronic nicotine exposure during pregnancy alters the genetics and dopamine neurons of newborns. The findings could help researchers develop a possible cure for nicotine addiction.... Read More...
When It Comes to Brain Connectivity, Cell Location Matters Most
A new study reports brain connectivity appears to be dictated by the spatial architecture of neurons, rather than the cell type-specific cues. ... Read More...
Surprising Role of the Cerebellum in Reward and Social Behaviors
Researchers reveal the role the cerebellum plays in helping to control the brain's reward system. The researchers identified a direct connection from the cerebellum to the ventral tegmental area. The study may shed new light on neural networks associated with social dysfunction.... Read More...
GABA Cells Help Fight Alcoholism
Researchers have identified how alcohol influences dopaminergic and inhibitory neurons in the ventral tegmental area. The findings could help develop new treatments for alcohol dependence.... Read More...
Dopamine’s Yin-Yang Personality: It’s an Upper and a Downer
Researchers shed light on the dual nature of dopamine, as a neurotransmitter that makes us seek pleasure and also reinforces avoidance of pain.... Read More...
Dopamine Primes the Brain for Enhanced Vigilance
Researchers have identified a brain network that may control the diversion of attention to focus on potential threats. Dopamine, they report, is key to the process.... Read More...
Dopamine Drives Early Addiction to Heroin
Researchers have identified a significant role dopamine plays in the development of heroin addiction. The study reports dopamine appears to directly cause drug reinforcement and, when dopamine neurons are silenced, mice are less likely to self administer the drug.... Read More...
New Target of Alcohol in the Brain Identified
Researchers have identified a new target of alcohol in the brain. A new study reveals alcohol blocks the KCNK13 potassium channel within the membrane of dopamine releasing neurons in the ventral tegmental area.... Read More...
How Cues Drive Our Behavior
Researchers shed light on the role dopamine neurons play in assigning values to transient environmental cues that drive behaviors. ... Read More...
Maged1 Gene Protects Against Cocaine Addiction
A new study reports mice lacking the Maged1 gene are unable to acquire an addiction to cocaine.... Read More...
Dopamine’s Role in Unlearning Fearful Association
Researchers report dopamine neurons may play a role in fear extinction. The study suggests targeting dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area could be of therapeutic benefit to reduce the impact of learned fear in PTSD and anxiety disorders.... Read More...