Summary: New research shows that romantic partners’ habits and traits can influence how strongly genetic risk for binge drinking affects an individual. Using data from Finnish twins, scientists found that partners who smoke, show psychological distress, or exhibit low conscientiousness amplify genetic risk.Surprisingly, heavy partner alcohol use reduced the impact...

Summary: Children raised in disadvantaged neighborhoods may show blunted brain responses to rewards and losses, especially if they have a family history of depression. New research reveals that community-level stress, not just personal trauma, can dampen neural reactions tied to motivation and emotional engagement.This muted response may contribute to higher...

Summary: A new meta-analysis highlights a strong connection between early-onset neurodevelopmental disorders with linguistic symptoms and left- or mixed-handedness. Disorders like dyslexia, autism, and schizophrenia were notably associated with higher rates of non-right-handedness, unlike later-onset conditions such as depression.Researchers suggest that this overlap is rooted in shared early brain developmental...

Summary: Out-of-body experiences (OBEs) are often dismissed as hallucinations or brain malfunctions, but a new study gives voice to those who have lived them. Through in-depth interviews, participants described their OBEs as vivid, often peaceful, and undeniably real, sometimes more real than waking life.While explanations varied, many leaned toward metaphysical...

Summary: A new study has revealed how two morphogens, WNT and Sonic Hedgehog, act as molecular “traffic cops,” directing early human brain development. Using a custom device and stem cell-derived organoids, researchers showed that exposure to these signals for just five days sets gene programs in motion that shape brain...

Summary: Mindfulness exercises paired with music were found to engage both neural and cardiac systems, potentially reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. A recent study showed that live and virtual music mindfulness sessions lowered stress and altered states of consciousness, though only live sessions fostered social connection.By enhancing autonomic nervous...

Summary: New research highlights how ayahuasca’s long-term mental health outcomes depend heavily on individual mental health history and the environment in which it is used. While the psychedelic has shown promise in easing anxiety and depression, adverse mental states—such as feelings of disconnection or hopelessness—were more common among users with...

Summary: Alcohol use among women has surged to match men’s rates, but women face far greater health risks even at lower consumption levels. A growing body of research is uncovering key neurobiological sex differences that influence why and how women drink, with stress being a more prominent motivator for women.Scientists...

Summary: Scientists have developed the most broadly protective antivenom yet, using antibodies from a donor who built immunity through years of self-injection with lethal snake venoms. By combining two antibodies from the donor with a small molecule inhibitor, the antivenom protected mice from deadly snakes like black mambas and king...

Summary: Researchers have identified new biomarkers for tinnitus by tracking pupil dilation and subtle facial movements linked to distress levels. Using AI-powered video analysis, they found that severe tinnitus sufferers showed constant pupil dilation and reduced facial responses to sounds, indicating heightened vigilance and chronic distress.These objective markers offer a...