Summary: Researchers uncovered that the vestibulo-ocular reflex, a vital brain circuit stabilizing gaze during body tilts, matures independently of sensory input in newborns. This reflex, essential for perceiving a stable environment, enables the eyes to counter-rotate with body movements.Experiments with zebrafish revealed that neuromuscular junctions, rather than brain regions, dictate...
Summary: Researchers discovered a connection between Alzheimer’s disease and herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), suggesting viral infections may contribute to neurodegeneration. The study found that tau protein, typically seen as harmful in Alzheimer’s, might initially protect the brain from the virus but later exacerbate damage.HSV-1 viral proteins were observed near tau...
Summary: Sleep deprivation impairs brain regions responsible for suppressing unwanted thoughts, contributing to mental health challenges. Functional neuroimaging revealed reduced activation in the prefrontal cortex and increased hippocampal activity in sleep-deprived individuals, suggesting memory control deficits.REM sleep plays a key role in rejuvenating these brain mechanisms, enhancing the ability to...
Summary: A new “molecular lantern” technique allows researchers to monitor molecular changes in the brain non-invasively using a thin light-emitting probe. This innovative tool utilizes Raman spectroscopy to detect chemical changes caused by tumors, injuries, or other pathologies without altering the brain beforehand.Unlike prior methods requiring genetic modifications, this approach...
Summary: New research in epigenetics reveals how early-life experiences influence gene expression and brain development. By bridging the gap between nature and nurture, this work shows that environmental factors leave lasting biological imprints, shaping long-term health and resilience.Findings suggest early interventions can profoundly impact brain development and mental health. Current...
Summary: A new study reveals that humans think at a rate of 10 bits per second, while sensory systems process a billion bits per second—100 million times faster. This highlights a paradox: why does the brain process thoughts so slowly when sensory input is so vast?Researchers propose that the brain’s...
Summary: The hormone estrogen increases binge drinking in females by enhancing activity in neurons within the brain’s BNST region. The effect is particularly strong during high-estrogen phases, leading to “front-loading,” or rapid alcohol consumption within the first 30 minutes of availability.Surprisingly, estrogen acts quickly by binding to cell-surface receptors, bypassing...
Summary: A study of nearly 10,000 adolescents found that those who initiated substance use before age 15 exhibited distinct differences in brain structures compared to their peers. Many of these differences were present before substance use, suggesting a role in predisposing factors like genetics and environment.The research identified brain-wide and...
Summary: Lifelong singles score lower on life satisfaction and show distinct personality traits compared to those in long-term relationships. Using data from 77,000 Europeans aged 50+, researchers observed that lifelong singles are less extroverted, conscientious, and open to new experiences.While single women report higher satisfaction than single men, societal expectations...
Summary: Classical and operant conditioning compete in the brain, preventing simultaneous learning of conflicting actions. Using fruit flies, researchers demonstrated that attempting to teach both types of learning simultaneously results in confusion and no clear memory formation. The brain’s navigation center prioritizes one learning system over the other to avoid...
