Summary: New research has uncovered a disrupted brain communication pathway in children with autism that impairs their ability to quickly shift attention—an essential skill for social interaction. This discovery was made by studying both children with autism and genetically modified mice lacking the Shank3 gene, a common cause of ASD.The...
Summary: A new study shows that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive brain stimulation method, can influence how quickly and flexibly people make decisions. Researchers targeted the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex—key in planning and action—while participants performed simultaneous visual and auditory tasks.Anodal stimulation, which enhances brain activity, led to quicker...
Summary: A new study reveals that adults with autism process active and passive touch similarly, unlike neurotypical individuals whose brains reduce activity during self-initiated touch. This finding may help explain repetitive behaviors like stimming, which are common in autism and can serve as emotional regulation or sensory coping mechanisms.Using EEG,...
Summary: Listening to nostalgic music activates key brain regions tied to memory and emotion, according to a new brain imaging study. Researchers found that songs linked to personal memories engage both the default mode network and the brain’s reward circuitry.This neural activity may explain why music is such a powerful...
Summary: A new study highlights how controlled exposure to natural light before waking can improve morning alertness and reduce sleepiness. Researchers tested three lighting conditions using light-shielding curtains and sensors to determine the effects of early morning light on 19 participants.The group exposed to 20 minutes of natural light just...
Summary: A new LSD-derived compound called JRT shows promise for treating schizophrenia and other brain disorders without inducing hallucinations. Developed by researchers who altered just two atoms in LSD’s structure, JRT maintains the psychedelic’s neuroplastic effects while avoiding its psychosis-linked risks.In mouse models, JRT enhanced synaptic growth, boosted antidepressant effects,...
Summary: Contrary to fears of “digital dementia,” new research finds that using digital technology is linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline in older adults. A large-scale meta-analysis of over 400,000 participants revealed that digital engagement correlates with a 58% lower risk of cognitive impairment.Technology challenges the brain, fosters...
Summary: A new study reveals that the basolateral amygdala (BLA) plays a key role in calibrating prosocial behavior based on emotional closeness. Researchers studied individuals with Urbach-Wiethe disease, a rare condition that selectively damages the BLA, using economic games to assess generosity.While patients were just as generous as controls toward...
Summary: New research reveals that gut imbalances in children with autism may influence brain activity and behavior by disrupting the production of key neurotransmitters like serotonin. Scientists found that changes in gut-derived metabolites are linked to differences in brain structure and function in children with autism.This gut-brain communication appears to...
Summary: A new national survey reveals that 45% of U.S. adults experience stress at least once a week due to news or social media, with 16% feeling stressed daily. While stress is a natural response to caring deeply about issues or people, chronic exposure without relief can negatively affect both...
