Summary: A long-term study has identified a promising biomarker that could indicate which patients are moving toward more severe, progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers found that an elevated CXCL13-to-BAFF ratio corresponds with compartmentalized inflammation in the leptomeninges — a characteristic feature of progressive MS. This elevated ratio appeared in a newly developed mouse … Read more

Summary: People who act in pro-social ways during the pandemic — for example, wearing masks, donating supplies, or helping those who are ill even at personal cost — are more likely to feel a strong connection to other people across the world. Source: University of Washington New research from the University of Washington finds that … Read more

Using a novel approach that combines laser illumination with lipid-coated silver nanoparticles, researchers captured direct molecular-level snapshots of amyloid‑β as it interacted with a cell‑like membrane. Although the origins of Alzheimer’s disease remain debated, many experts agree that certain forms of the amyloid‑β peptide that can disrupt cell membranes are central to the pathology. Designing … Read more

Although it may not always be the first concern for people living with facial hemiparalysis, the condition can significantly affect social communication: it not only prevents normal facial expression but also reduces the ability to perceive and interpret emotions on others’ faces. A collaborative study involving the International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) in Trieste, … Read more

Laboratory research compared alcohol alone to alcohol mixed with an energy drink on cognitive control and subjective intoxication. Findings indicate that energy drinks increase the stimulant sensations people feel when drinking alcohol. Energy drinks did not change measured behavioral impairment from alcohol, especially impaired impulse control. The combination of heightened stimulation and persistent impulse-control impairment … Read more

Circadian Clock Genes Protect the Brain from Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration New findings suggest potential ways to delay or prevent some age-related neurodegenerative conditions. As organisms age, their internal biological clocks gradually lose precision and eventually fail. In mice, disrupting a core clock gene called Bmal1 has long been known to accelerate aging, producing symptoms … Read more

Summary: A recent UC Davis study finds a link between childhood asthma and poorer memory performance, particularly in episodic memory. The research shows that children with asthma scored lower on memory tests than peers without asthma, and that earlier onset of asthma was associated with slower memory development over a two-year period. The findings suggest … Read more

Summary: Flies lacking the transcription factor Ets21c died far more quickly when exposed to oxidative stress, revealing a molecular switch that influences tissue renewal, stress resilience, and lifespan. Source: University of Cologne The survival and fitness of multicellular organisms depend on their ability to renew tissues throughout life. This renewal is critical in tissues constantly … Read more

Summary: A new machine learning model reveals that serotonin can accelerate learning rates in the brain. Source: Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. UCL researchers using data from the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown have developed a computational model showing that serotonin, a widespread neuromodulator, can speed up learning. Serotonin is a key chemical messenger in the brain … Read more

Summary: New research clarifies the molecular and genetic mechanisms that allow the brain to form long-term memories. A single stimulation of hippocampal synapses triggered repeated cycles in which the memory-related gene Arc produced mRNA that was locally translated into Arc protein, strengthening synapses. The team identified a novel feedback loop that helps explain how short-lived … Read more