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

Summary: Researchers at The University of Texas at Arlington found that when two strangers meet, mutual understanding develops mainly through verbal exchange—talking and asking questions—rather than through non-verbal cues like gestures or eye contact. Source: UT Arlington UTA psychologists report that first encounters between strangers build shared understanding largely through words, not non-verbal signals. Psychologists … Read more

Summary: Public acceptance of CRISPR and other genome-editing methods in agriculture depends strongly on purpose and species. People are more accepting when editing is used to increase disease resistance, particularly in crops, and less accepting when edits aim to boost production or alter livestock for yield. Source: University of Göttingen A research collaboration between the … Read more

Summary: Researchers at the University of Bath have refined a peptide molecule that shows promise for preventing Parkinson’s disease. Source: University of Bath Scientists at the University of Bath have improved a peptide molecule that could form the basis of a future drug to prevent or slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Professor Jody Mason … Read more

Summary: People living with a neurological or mental health condition face a higher risk of developing a second, related disorder later in life. For example, individuals with Parkinson’s disease were found to have about four times the rate of developing dementia; those with psychiatric disorders also showed an elevated risk of later dementia. Source: University … Read more

Summary: Researchers have identified the serotonin 2C receptor in the brain as a key regulator of memory in both humans and animal models. This discovery sheds light on mechanisms behind memory decline in disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and points toward new therapeutic approaches. Mutations in the gene that encodes the serotonin 2C receptor (HTR2C) are … Read more

Summary: Routine eye exams may one day help detect Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias years before cognitive symptoms appear. A new study in mice carrying a common genetic variant shows distinct, early changes in retinal blood vessels that mirror cerebrovascular alterations linked to dementia risk, highlighting the retina’s promise as a noninvasive biomarker for brain … Read more

Summary: A gene expression study shows it is possible to distinguish people with treatment-resistant depression from those with major depressive disorder who respond to antidepressants by measuring inflammation levels and the molecular pathways that activate inflammation. Source: King’s College London These findings may help guide the development of personalised depression treatments that incorporate anti-inflammatory approaches. … Read more

Summary: Neurosteroid replacement therapy shows promise as a rapid and effective treatment for postpartum depression, offering relief by restoring brain neurosteroid levels after childbirth. Source: Texas A&M Postpartum depression affects roughly one in eight women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. D. Samba Reddy, a professor in the Department of Neuroscience and … Read more