Summary: A new study highlights how childhood physical neglect disrupts social development more than physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Neglected children were less social, less popular, and less connected to cohesive friend groups, facing stigmatization and withdrawal.he findings show that physical neglect impacts all dimensions of peer relationships, influencing mental...
Summary: Scientists have uncovered how developing neurons migrate from the germinal zone, a process critical for proper brain circuit formation. They identified a “push-pull” system where the guidance molecule Netrin-1 repels differentiated neurons, while the ubiquitin ligase Siah2 prevents premature migration by degrading essential proteins.The interplay of these signals creates...
Summary: Researchers have identified genetic variations in brain cells, particularly microglia and oligodendrocytes, that influence both aging and Alzheimer’s risk. These variations impact how cells function as they age, potentially priming some individuals for dementia.The findings suggest two sequential processes: genetic factors influence aging, which may predispose individuals to Alzheimer’s....
Summary: Male and female mice usually prefer female companions but switch to preferring males under survival stress, a new study reveals. This behavioral shift is driven by distinct brain circuits involving dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area.Male mice show different neural pathways for female and male preferences, while females...
Summary: Adolescent rats fed a high-fat diet displayed increased impulsivity and altered decision-making as adults. These “cheesecake rats” were quicker to act on visual cues (indicative of impulsivity) but showed more conservative choices in gambling tasks, opting for smaller, safer rewards.Genetic analysis revealed changes in their brain’s reward pathway and...
Summary: Childhood stress may leave lasting marks on sperm, altering epigenetic profiles and potentially influencing brain development in offspring. Researchers found that men with high levels of childhood maltreatment had changes in DNA methylation and non-coding RNA levels in their sperm.These epigenetic changes could mediate how early life stress impacts...
Summary: Researchers have identified a unique stem cell in the young brain capable of maturing into multiple cell types, potentially explaining the origins of autism and glioblastoma. These stem cells show gene expression patterns that regulate early brain development and, when disrupted, could lead to neurological conditions.The study provides a...
Summary: A new study presents a novel framework for understanding transformative life decisions, focusing on their complexity and emotional impact. Researchers identified five key dimensions—conflicting cues, change of self, uncertain experiential value, irreversibility, and risk—that shape these decisions.Simple strategies like tallying pros and cons or aligning with an ideal self...
