Summary: Increasing synchronization among neurons in an upstream brain region that sends information markedly improves the fidelity and processing of that information in downstream regions. Source: Bar-Ilan University In the early 20th century, researchers first began measuring brain activity using electrodes on the scalp. They discovered slow and fast rhythmic patterns of electrical activity—now commonly … Read more

Summary: Researchers have identified a specific neural circuit that detects male pheromone signals involved in inter-male aggression. Source: Chinese Academy of Sciences In a study published in Neuron, scientists from Dr. XU Xiaohong’s laboratory at the Institute of Neuroscience, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, describe a previously … Read more

Proof-of-concept study highlights new therapeutic use of engineered human stem cells. Researchers at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute working through Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a promising new strategy to treat brain cancer using genetically engineered human stem cells. Led by neuroscientist Khalid Shah, MS, PhD, the team previously demonstrated the value of stem cells … Read more

Language ability typically resides in the left hemisphere of the brain, but new research suggests early brain anatomy may not be the primary driver of a child’s language growth. Researchers from Brown University and King’s College London report surprising findings about how brain structure and the environment interact during early language development. Their study, published … Read more

Cold Virus Injected into Brain Tumor as Part of UAMS Clinical Trial Summary: Researchers injected a modified cold virus directly into a patient’s brain tumor as part of a clinical trial that combines viral therapy with immunotherapy to target glioblastoma. Source: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. A team at the University of Arkansas for … Read more

Summary: Researchers have identified neuropilin-1 (NRP1) as a previously unrecognized co-receptor that amplifies pain signaling driven by nerve growth factor (NGF). Although NRP1 does not transmit signals in the same way as classic receptors, it enhances NGF-mediated pain by concentrating NGF at the cell surface and guiding the signaling receptor TrkA to the plasma membrane … Read more

New UTMB study links traumatic brain injury to tau-related dementia symptoms Researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston have provided new evidence connecting traumatic brain injury (TBI) with the development and spread of tau protein species that can produce dementia-like symptoms. The study narrows a critical gap in understanding how TBI … Read more

Summary: A major multi-year study directly compared two leading theories of consciousness—Integrated Information Theory (IIT) and Global Neuronal Workspace Theory (GNWT)—but concluded that neither theory alone fully accounts for conscious experience. While IIT emphasizes deep integration across brain regions and GNWT focuses on widespread broadcasting or “ignition” of information, data from 256 human participants did … Read more

Summary: Researchers have identified a specific group of brainstem neurons that enable newborn mouse pups to produce ultrasonic calls that attract their mother. When these neurons fail to develop, the pups are unable to vocalize. The findings suggest that similar brainstem circuits might underlie early vocal cries in humans and could be relevant to understanding … Read more

Summary: Exercise does more than build muscle—it also reshapes brain circuits to raise physical endurance. New research shows that long-lasting improvements in stamina from repeated workouts depend on a specific set of nerve cells in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). Known as SF1 neurons, this population becomes strongly active during exercise and remains active for more … Read more