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Circuit that focuses attention brings in wide array of inputs

With a comprehensive map of the wiring, researchers can now discern what information flows into the circuit to enable a key brain function.

For neurons, where they begin isn’t necessarily where they end

Scientists describe novel methods for inferring the movement of human brain cells during fetal development by studying healthy adult individuals who have recently passed away from natural causes.

Whole-brain preclinical study illuminates how epileptic seizures originate

New evidence from a zebrafish model of epilepsy may help resolve a debate into how seizures originate, according to investigators. The findings may also be useful in the discovery and development of future epilepsy drugs.

How do our eyes stay focused on what we reach for?

Keeping our eyes focused on what we reach for, whether it be an item at the grocery store or a ground ball on the baseball field, may appear seamless, but, in fact, is due to a complex neurological process involving intricate timing and coordination. R…

Genetic changes differed, increased in people with Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that changes accumulated in the brain cells of patients with Alzheimer’s disease at a faster rate, potentially explaining why brain cells die and revealing new pathways to target for treatment.

Fetal exposure to meds may affect infants’ brain development

A new study demonstrates that in utero exposure to mother’s antiepileptic or antidepressant medication may affect development of the newborn brain networks. In the study, novel mathematical methods were developed to allow future research on how commonl…

When severe infection causes long-term mood disorders: A promising avenue to prevent mental illness following a transient infection

Scientists used pharmacogenetic techniques to identify a dedicated neural circuit comprising the central nucleus of the amygdala and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. The activation of this circuit in the first few hours of sepsis induces anxiou…

When neurons behave like a double-edged sword

Immune cell responses to bacteria affect the intrinsic excitability of rat neuronal subtypes differently. Calcium-activated SK channels in pyramidal cells were modulated by microglia and upregulated, while they were downregulated in Purkinje cells.

Psychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer´s disease

In addition to memory problems and other cognitive symptoms, most people with Alzheimer’s disease also suffer from mental health issues. It has long been unclear whether these occur because of tissue changes in the brain, or whether they represent psyc…

Genetic analysis provides insights into the cause of hydrocephalus, or ‘water on the brain’

Genetic studies of children with hydrocephalus (‘water on the brain’) combined with mouse models indicate that in certain genetic subtypes, the condition arises due to abnormal neurodevelopment that disrupts mechanical stability of the brain. Treatment…