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Illuminating real-time brain dynamics of neuropeptides with a fluorescent biosensor

Neuropeptides play fundamental roles in modulating cellular and circuit functions within the brain. One such signaling molecule — orexin — regulates arousal and wakefulness, and its failure can lead to constant daytime sleepiness (narcolepsy). Resear…

New mechanism involved in learning and memory

FMRP, a protein whose loss causes intellectual disability, may regulate a neuron’s synaptic response by establishing a feedback loop between the cell’s nucleus and its faraway dendrites.

Neurobiological processes occurring during puberty that trigger sex differences in learning and memory

New research reveals that sex differences in learning and memory mechanisms are triggered by biological events occurring during puberty. Findings show prepubescent female rodents have much better hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) and spatial lea…

How does cannabis use affect brain health? Caution advised, more research needed, experts say

Although recreational and medicinal marijuana (cannabis) is increasingly available across the U.S., public and professional awareness that cannabis use may adversely affect brain health is critical, according to the American Heart Association’s first s…

Newly discovered effect of toxic goiter on brain

Toxic goiter affects the brain more than was previously known, a new study shows, and involves volume changes occurring in central parts of the brain. These findings are described as a key advance for a vulnerable group of patients.

Amylin peptide in the brain senses isolation and drives social contact-seeking behavior

In efforts to understand the neural basis for loneliness, researchers have found a molecular indicator and regulator of social isolation in female mice. The new study reports that social contact-seeking behavior in mice is driven by the peptide amylin …

Genetically informed atlases reveal new landscapes in brain structure

Scientists have used atlases of the human brain informed by genetics to identify hundreds of genomic loci. The findings illuminate how genes impact the brain and diseases.

Perception study may explain promising depression therapy

Researchers have demonstrated the importance of a specific type of connection between brain cells that may explain ketamine’s potential as a treatment for depression.

Untangling mixed (neural) signals

New research has uncovered how neurons encode and decode information and differentiate between motor and sensory signals.

Mothers’ sleep apnea may increase risk of autism-like changes in their male offspring

Sleep apnea in pregnancy may increase the risk for brain and behavioral changes associated with autism, especially in males, according to a study in rats.