Four genetic regions have been identified as playing a role in left-handedness. Three of the four genes were associated with proteins involved in brain development and structure. Neuroimaging revealed those who were left-handed had increased functional connectivity between left and right language networks. Researchers also found correlations between the genetic regions associated with left-handedness and slightly reduced Parkinson's risk, but a slightly increased risk for schizophrenia. Read More
Microscopic alterations in white matter may affect how patients with neurological conditions respond to non-invasive electrical brain stimulation. Read More
In mice genetically engineered to carry human stuttering mutations, vocalization defects are derived from abnormalities in astrocytes in the corpus callosum. Read More
Sustained hits following one season of playing football are enough to cause structural alterations to the brain. When players sustain a concussion, structural brain integrity decreases, and levels of tau increase. Researchers say, while concussions are a prime concern for those who play football, sustained hits also pose a threat to neurological health. Read More
Structural and functional alterations in the cognitive control network contribute to individual variability in memory performance during aging. Read More
Side impact to the head can lead to rotational accelerations what cause mechanical vibrations to concentrate in the corpus callosum and periventricular region of the brain. Trauma to the side of the head can lead to concussions. Read More
White matter connectivity between the auditory processing areas and brain areas associated with reward may explain why we like, or dislike music. Read More
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Axon myelination is significantly disrupted in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers also found brain cells of men and women vary significantly in how their genes respond to the neurodegenerative disease. Read More
Preterm babies who were fed breastmilk had significantly higher levels of creatine and choline, key metabolites for brain growth and development, than those who were formula fed. Read More
Disruptions in the supply of allopregnanolone, a hormone created by the placenta late in pregnancy, to the developing fetus can leave children more vulnerable to brain injuries associated with ASD. Losing the supply of ALLO alters cerebellar development, an area of the brain critical for motor coordination and social cognition, impacting the post-birth development of cerebellar white matter. An experimental model revealed deficient cerebellar white matter resulted in social impairments and an increase in repetitive behaviors, two hallmark features associated with autism. Read More
Study explores how large scale patterns of brain activity can vary between cognitive systems, and across people. Read More
Contrary to popular belief that brain changes begin to normalize immediately after ceasing alcohol consumption, a new study reveals damage to the brain continues during the first weeks of abstinence. Read More