Resoures
Teen Brain’s Blunted Reward Response Predicts Depression Onset
Summary: A new study reveals that a reduced neural response to rewards in teens predicts the first onset of depression, but not anxiety or suicidality. Researchers used EEG scans to measure “reward positivity” in at-risk adolescents and found that those with blunted responses were more likely to develop depression.This neural
By focusing on mental support tissue, cocaine lowers” Giving Up” by reducing” Giving Up.”
Summary: Researchers have found that ketamine’s antidepressant effects target astroglia, a type of brain support cell, rather than neurons, challenging conventional views. Using zebrafish, scientists observed that ketamine suppressed the “giving up” behavior caused by futility signals, an effect linked to astroglial activation.Whole-brain imaging revealed ketamine overstimulated astrocytes, reducing their
Brain-Targeted mRNA Shipping Breaks the Blood-Brain Barrier
Summary: Researchers have developed lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) that cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and precisely target brain cells, a major step toward treating neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s. By attaching short peptides to LNPs, scientists achieved targeted mRNA delivery to neurons and endothelial cells, avoiding invasive procedures.Peptides are smaller, more stable,
AI Adjusts Personality Tests to Make It Look More Likeable
Summary: Large language models (LLMs) can identify when they are being given personality tests and adjust their responses to appear more socially desirable. Researchers found that LLMs, like GPT-4, showed exaggerated traits such as reduced neuroticism and increased extraversion when asked multiple test questions.This “social desirability bias” emerges because LLMs
Lumbar Stem Cell Transplants Prove Their Value for Spinal Injury
Summary: A Phase I clinical trial has demonstrated the long-term safety of neural stem cell transplantation for chronic spinal cord injuries. Researchers followed four patients for five years, with two showing sustained neurological improvements, including better motor function and sensory responses.Neural stem cells, derived from human cells, can integrate into
Lab-Grown Neurons Mimic Brain Networks, Show Neurotransmission
Summary: Researchers have developed lab-grown neurons that behave more like real brain networks, advancing the study of learning and memory. Using microfluidic devices, the neurons formed diverse and functional networks, resembling those seen in living nervous systems.These networks exhibited complex activity patterns and showed neural plasticity, reconfiguring in response to