A new study has shown neurotransmitters in the human brain are released during the processing of the emotional content of language, providing new insights into how people interpret the significance of words.
Researchers have identified how cerebrovascular disease disrupts brain connectivity, contributing to cognitive decline and neurodegeneration alongside Alzheimer’s disease.
There may be a link between hearing impairment and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s according to research led by Lancaster University. Researchers analyzed data from over 159,000 individuals, finding that every 10-decibel increase in hearing loss corresponded to a 57% higher risk of Parkinson’s. While the findings highlight a strong association, the causality between hearing loss and Parkinson’s remains unclear.
A new systematic literature search has identified the highest priority clinical actions aimed at improving post-acute care for non-hospitalized traumatic brain injury.
Researchers are making strides in restoring touch sensations to prosthetic limbs through brain stimulation. By using electrodes in the brain’s touch center, they can evoke stable, precise sensations, even allowing users to feel the shape and motion of objects.
New research reveals that certain cells inactivate one parent’s copy of a gene, leading to a bias in gene activity that may explain why some individuals with disease-causing mutations remain symptom-free. This selective gene inactivation, known as monoallelic expression, affects about 1 in 20 genes and varies between cell types.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet and Mayo Clinic has revealed important insights into brain degeneration in dementia with Lewy bodies.
Tourette syndrome is currently diagnosed about three times more frequently in males than in females. A new study finds that females are less likely to be diagnosed with the syndrome, take longer to receive a diagnosis and are older when they are diagnosed than male individuals.
Finally this week, a new study has found that eating greater quantities of red meat, especially in processed forms, increasesthe risk for dementia.
Regional Cortical Volume and Thickness Associations With Early Substance Use Initiation in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study. Credit: JAMA Network Open (2024).
A new study has identified neuroanatomical differences in children associated with early substance use initiation.
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) shows a positive treatment effect and improved quality of life (QoL) among patients with treatment-resistant depression according to two studies published in Brain Stimulation.
A new analysis of U.S. mortality data reveals the disproportionate impact of traumatic brain injuries on older adults, males and certain racial and ethnic groups.
Gender differences define how the human brain ages and telltale biomarkers in the blood may be strongly suggestive of cognitive impairment and dementia, according to a comprehensive new study involving more than 500 people.
Researchers have identified genetic variations in brain cells, particularly microglia and oligodendrocytes, that influence both aging and Alzheimer’s risk.
New research shows that not all brain cells age equally, with certain cells, such as those in the hypothalamus, experiencing more age-related genetic changes. These changes include reduced activity in neuronal circuitry genes and increased activity in immunity-related genes.
A recent study has found that menopause revs up the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS).
Researchers have discovered that pupil size during non-REM sleep correlates with memory consolidation. When pupils contract, the brain focuses on consolidating new memories; when dilated, it processes older ones. This separation prevents “catastrophic forgetting,” allowing the brain to efficiently manage both new and existing knowledge. These findings could lead to better memory enhancement techniques for humans and inspire more efficient artificial neural networks.
A new study shows head trauma may activate latent viruses, leading to neurodegeneration.
A collaborative effort between Mount Sinai and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has shed valuable light on how monoamine neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and now histamine help regulate brain physiology and behavior through chemical bonding of these monoamines to histone proteins, the core DNA-packaging proteins of our cells.
Finally this week, sex differences in brain structure are present from birth, new research shows.
Your brain is the most complex organ in your body, responsible for everything you think, feel, and do. Keeping it healthy is essential for a fulfilling life. Here are 10 things you can do to boost your brainpower:
1. Engage in Regular Exercise
Physical activity isn’t just good for your body; it’s also a powerful brain booster. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen. It also stimulates the growth of new brain cells and improves cognitive function.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
2. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Sleep is crucial for consolidating memories and clearing out brain waste products. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and optimize your sleep environment.
3. Challenge Your Mind
Just like muscles, your brain needs to be challenged to stay strong. Engage in activities that require mental effort, such as:
Learning a new language
Playing brain games
Reading challenging books
Solving puzzles
4. Eat a Brain-Healthy Diet
Nutritious foods provide the fuel your brain needs to function optimally. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your diet.
Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can damage brain cells and impair cognitive function. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as:
Meditation
Yoga
Spending time in nature
Listening to music
6. Stay Socially Connected
Social interaction is essential for brain health. Spending time with loved ones, friends, and community members provides mental stimulation and emotional support.
Join clubs, volunteer, or participate in social activities.
7. Learn a New Skill
Learning new things keeps your brain flexible and adaptable. Take a class, learn a musical instrument, or pick up a new hobby.
The challenge of learning something new helps to form new neural connections.
8. Protect Your Head
Head injuries can have serious consequences for brain health. Wear a helmet when engaging in activities that carry a risk of head injury, such as biking, skateboarding, or playing contact sports.
9. Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen time can be detrimental to brain health, especially for children.
*Set limits on screen time and encourage activities that don’t involve screens.
10. Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you have concerns about your brain health, talk to your doctor. They can assess your risk factors and recommend strategies for maintaining optimal brain function.
Early intervention can be crucial for managing conditions that affect brain health.
By incorporating these tips into your daily life, you can take steps to protect your brain and ensure a healthier, happier future.
Credit: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2024).
The link between poor sleep and mental health problems could be related to deficits in brain regions that keep unwanted thoughts out of the mind, according to hew research.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have collaborated with international partners to explore if societal inequality affects the brain. The study reveals a direct link between structural inequality—such as socioeconomic disparities measured by a country-level index (GINI)—and changes in brain structure and connectivity associated with aging and dementia.
New research has explained how the body’s internal clock influences the inflammatory process of the immune system.
Researchers used AI to analyze brain images from 70-year-olds, estimating their biological brain age and uncovering connections to lifestyle and health factors. Diabetes, inflammation, and high glucose levels were linked to older-looking brains, while regular exercise and healthy habits were associated with younger-looking brains.
An international research team, including researchers at Karolinska Institutet, has mapped the genes expressed in the brain cells of people with multiple sclerosis.
Gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia are associated with an increased risk for neurological outcomes in the months or years after giving birth, according to a recent study published in JAMA Neurology.
People with breathing problems during sleep may have a larger hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for memory and thinking, according to a new study.
Researchers have 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.
COVID-19 infection is not associated with immediate changes in multiple sclerosis (MS) symptom severity or disability, according to a study published in Neurology.
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.
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.
For patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, a genomics-informed model can provide clinical benefits, directly affecting management, according to a new study.
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.
Finally this week,researchers have found that the pupil is key to understanding how, and when, the brain forms strong, long-lasting memories.
As the clock strikes midnight on January 1st, millions around the world set ambitious resolutions to transform their lives. Yet, research shows that most resolutions fail within a few weeks. Why is it so difficult to stick to our goals? Let’s turn to the workings of the brain for some possible answers.
The Burden of Cognitive Load
The prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for decision-making, planning, and self-control, has limited cognitive resources. Think of it as a battery that can be depleted with overuse. Every time we make a decision, resist a temptation, or even remember something trivial, we drain these resources. This phenomenon is known as cognitive load.
When cognitive resources are stretched thin, such as after a long day of work or when juggling multiple tasks, the brain struggles to exert self-control. Stress hormones like cortisol exacerbate this effect. High cortisol levels impair the prefrontal cortex’s function, making it harder to resist temptations or make rational decisions. This is why people often abandon their resolutions in moments of stress or fatigue.
Willpower and the Dopamine Connection
Willpower is not just a matter of grit; it’s deeply rooted in the brain’s reward system. The neurotransmitter dopamine plays a pivotal role in motivation and self-control. Engaging in self-disciplined behavior—such as sticking to a resolution—releases dopamine, which reinforces the behavior and provides a sense of accomplishment.
However, dopamine levels fluctuate based on our physical and emotional state. When we’re tired or stressed, dopamine levels drop, weakening our resolve and making it harder to resist temptations. This is why maintaining energy and managing stress are crucial for sustaining willpower.
Habits: The Brain’s Shortcut
Habits are automated behaviors that bypass the prefrontal cortex, conserving cognitive resources. They rely on established neural pathways in the brain. Forming new habits involves creating and strengthening these pathways, which makes desired behaviors more automatic over time.
For instance, brushing your teeth every morning doesn’t require conscious effort because it’s a well-formed habit. Similarly, turning your resolutions into habits reduces reliance on willpower and increases the likelihood of long-term success.
Practical Strategies for Success
To harness the power of neuroscience in achieving your New Year’s resolutions, consider these strategies:
1. “Exercise” Willpower in Small Ways
Willpower, like a muscle, can be strengthened with practice. Here are some simple ways to build it:
Resist the urge to check your phone during a meeting.
Complete a challenging task without procrastination.
Skip a sugary snack in favor of a healthier option.
Each small victory trains your brain to exert self-control, making it easier to tackle bigger challenges over time.
2. Leverage the Power of Habits
Building habits is key to reducing cognitive load and sustaining resolutions. Try these techniques:
Habit stacking: Link a new habit to an existing one. For example, “After I brush my teeth, I will meditate for 5 minutes.”
Use cues and triggers: Set up reminders or environmental prompts. For example, place a water bottle on your desk to encourage hydration.
3. Focus on Intrinsic Motivation
Intrinsic motivation, driven by genuine personal desires, is more sustainable than external rewards. Reflect on why your resolution matters to you. For example:
If your goal is to exercise more, focus on how it boosts your mood and energy levels rather than just losing weight.
Engaging in activities that align with your values and bring you joy releases dopamine, reinforcing positive behavior and making it easier to stay motivated.
The “Why” Behind Resolutions
Understanding the underlying motivations for your resolutions can make all the difference. Ask yourself:
Are you pursuing this goal because of external pressures or because it aligns with your genuine aspirations?
For example, resolving to eat healthier might stem from a desire to feel more energetic and vibrant rather than societal expectations. Connecting with the deeper “why” increases intrinsic motivation and improves the likelihood of success.
Keeping New Year’s resolutions is not just about willpower; it’s about working with your brain’s natural tendencies. By managing cognitive load, leveraging dopamine, and building habits, you can turn fleeting resolutions into lasting changes. Remember, the path to success lies not in perfection but in persistence. With small, consistent steps, you can rewire your brain and make your goals a reality.
The Brain Connectivity Model of Intelligence. Schematic illustration of selected brain connections that have been linked to intelligence differences across studies. Adapted from Hilger & Sporns, 2021. Credit: Thiele et al.
Neuroscientists have developed machine learning models to predict human intelligence.
Researchers have found that incorporating specific nutrients into a regular diet may reduce iron buildup in the brain—a factor associated with cognitive decline in normal aging. The research team said the findings offer valuable insights for future clinical trials aimed at evaluating the impact of similar nutritional intake on brain iron accumulation and cognitive function.
The short-term boost our brains get after we do exercise persists throughout the following day, suggests a study led by UCL (University College London) researchers.
Thirteen proteins linked to brain aging in humans areidentifiedin a Nature Aging paper. Changes in the concentrations of these blood proteins may peak at 57, 70, and 78 years old in humans, and suggest that these ages may be important for potential interventions in the brain aging process.
A team of scientists has uncovered a novel mechanism that reshapes our understanding of how blood flow is regulated in the brain. The study, published in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences introduces Electro-Calcium (E-Ca) Coupling, a process that integrates electrical and calcium signaling in brain capillaries to ensure precise blood flow delivery to active neurons.
Researchers at the Yale School of Medicine found structural and functional alterations in specific brain regions of individuals with opioid use disorder. The study’s results were published in Radiology.
A new study has identified a unique brain network that links varied patterns of brain atrophy, or shrinkage, associated with schizophrenia. By combining neuroimaging data from multiple studies involving more than 8,000 participants, the research team found a specific connectivity pattern of atrophy that was present across different stages and symptoms of schizophrenia—and distinct from brain networks associated with other psychiatric disorders.
New research provides valuable insights into the brain-body immune connection, identifying key communication hubs in the dural sinuses and skull bone marrow at the back of the head.
New research shows that slow-wave sleep strengthens synaptic connections in the neocortex, making it more receptive to long-term memory formation. Researchers found that during deep sleep, synapses in the neocortex reach peak efficiency at precise moments within slow-wave oscillations.
A new study suggests how brain, with sleep, learns meaningful maps of spaces.
A large-scale study revealed that genetic variants linked to dyslexia are associated with differences in brain areas controlling motor coordination, vision, and language. Using data from over a million individuals, researchers calculated genetic “polygenic scores” for dyslexia and analyzed their relationship to brain structures. Higher genetic risk for dyslexia was tied to lower volumes in brain regions related to speech processing and movement, and increased volumes in the visual cortex. Differences in the brain’s internal capsule, which connects regions, were also observed.
Cognitive impairment, especially in learning and memory, is more likely among people with epilepsy, according to a newly published study.
A recent study explores how connections across the entire brain predict human intelligence, moving beyond traditional focus on specific brain areas like the prefrontal cortex. Using fMRI data from over 800 individuals, researchers analyzed communication between brain regions to predict fluid, crystallized, and general intelligence scores. Findings reveal that distributed brain-wide connections play a crucial role, surpassing existing models that emphasize localized regions. This research highlights intelligence as a global property of the brain, offering fresh perspectives for understanding cognitive processes.
The chromosomal disorder 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q) has emerged as one of the strongest risks for schizophrenia.
New research reveals that brain structure varies with reading ability, particularly in the left hemisphere. Better readers have distinct traits, including a larger anterior temporal lobe for integrating word meaning and a thicker left Heschl’s gyrus for phonological processing.
Night shifts and poor sleep quality are associated with an increased risk for incident epilepsy, according to a study published in BMC Public Health.
People with severe, treatment-resistant depression who received a nerve-stimulating therapy showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms, quality of life and ability to complete everyday tasks after a year, according to the results of a national, multicenter clinical trial.
Finally this week, researchers have found a relationship between lifestyle choices that affect dementia risk and early signs of aging in the brain.
A new way of mapping activity and connections between different regions of the brain has revealed fresh insights into how higher-order functions like language, thought and attention, are organized.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have demonstrated that the brain’s ability to learn certain skills can be significantly enhanced if both the brain and nervous system are primed by carefully-calibrated, precisely-timed electrical and magnetic stimulations. This new research has the potential to open entirely new perspectives in rehabilitation and possibly elite sports.
A study of patients with epilepsy shows how making new neurons benefits cognition.
New AI software can read the brain scans of patients who have had a stroke to more accurately pinpoint when it happened and help doctors work out whether it can be successfully treated. It is hoped that the new technology will ultimately enable faster and more accurate emergency treatment of patients in a hospital setting.
Researchers have discovered the structural details of a brain receptor called GPR6, which could lead to new treatments for Parkinson’s disease.
Living in disadvantaged neighbourhoods is associated with higher blood pressure and lower cognitive performance, even in individuals without mild cognitive impairment. Researchers analyzed over 500 adults, finding that poor social and economic resources in neighborhoods exacerbate cardiometabolic health issues and reduce brain function.
Scientists have developed a new approach to learning through noninvasive manipulation of brain activity patterns.
A new study is helping solve the mystery as to why the brain shrinks in a unique pattern, known as atrophy, in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Published in Acta Neuropathologica, this research provides novel evidence that cumulative repetitive head impacts are driving the specific patterns of brain degeneration found at the base of the folds of the surface of the brain, known as the cortical sulcus.
A global research collaboration has revealed a hidden cause of a rare intellectual disorder associated with severe language delay, epileptic seizures, motor impairment and brain abnormalities.
A multi-sensory digital treatment protocol, incorporating sensory integration, sensory substitution, and sensory masking (e.g., blindfolding), significantly improved participants’ performance on spatial memory tasks. Resting-state fMRI analysis showed that these improvements were associated with enhanced connectivity between memory-related brain regions, executive frontal areas, and the default mode network (DMN).
People with high blood pressure who also lack sleep may be at increased risk of reduced cognitive performance and greater brain injury, new research has found.
Researchers have uncovered a groundbreaking mechanism called Electro-Calcium (E-Ca) coupling that integrates electrical and calcium signaling in brain capillaries. This process ensures precise blood flow delivery to active neurons, crucial for brain health and cognitive function.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have made a breakthrough in understanding what neural mechanisms allow the extreme sensitivity of human vision in darkness.
New research reveals that music can do more than trigger memories—it can alter their emotional tone. When participants recalled neutral stories while listening to emotionally charged music, they later remembered the stories as matching the music’s mood. These findings hint at music’s potential for therapeutic interventions, like reframing negative memories in depression or PTSD.
Finally this week a recent study has found that high blood sugar may impair brain health even in people without diabetes.
EEG setup with e-tattoo electrodes. Credit: Nanshu Lu
For the first time, scientists have invented a liquid ink that doctors can print onto a patient’s scalp to measure brain activity. The technology offers a promising alternative to the cumbersome process currently used for monitoring brainwaves and diagnosing neurological conditions. It also has the potential to enhance non-invasive brain-computer interface applications.
People who have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) who have a family history of mental illness may have a higher risk of aggression in middle age, according to a new study.
A loss of brain volume associated with new immunotherapies for Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by the removal of amyloid plaques, rather than the loss of neurons or brain tissue, finds a study led by UCL researchers.
A common heart drug may slow the progression of Huntington’s disease according to new research.
Men with cardiovascular disease risk factors, including obesity, face brain health decline a decade earlier—from their mid 50s to mid 70s—than similarly affected women who are most susceptible from their mid 60s to mid 70s, suggest the findings of a long term study, published online in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry.
In a new study published in Briefings in Bioinformatics, researchers have found that depression can increase the chances of a person experiencing menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea).
Researchers have achieved a major milestone in the treatment of spinal cord injuries (SCI). By applying deep brain stimulation (DBS) to an unexpected region in the brain—the lateral hypothalamus (LH)—the team has improved the recovery of lower limb movements in two individuals with partial SCI, greatly improving their autonomy and well-being.
Soccer heading may cause more damage to the brain than previously thought, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
New research reveals subtle changes in the visual pathways of individuals with chronic mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), even when standard eye examinations show no abnormalities. These findings include structural and functional deficits despite participants showing normal visual acuity during clinical examination.
A recent study identifies research strategies for tying brain function and structure to behaviour and health.
COVID-19 may be a risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS). This has been shown by new research at Örebro University and Örebro University Hospital, Sweden. The study is published in the journal Brain Communications.
A study appearing in Nature Neuroscience has linked distinct neural and behavioral characteristics in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to a simple computational principle.
Everyday physical activity, like going for a short walk or playing with the kids, may provide short-term benefits for cognitive health, equivalent to reversing four years of cognitive aging. That was a key finding anew study, published in the journal Annals of Behavioral Medicine.
Voice experiments in people with epilepsy have helped trace the circuit of electrical signals in the brain that allow its hearing center to sort out background sounds from their own voices.
A study led by University College London researchers found that large language models, a type of AI that analyzes text, can predict the results of proposed neuroscience studies more accurately than human experts.
Skeletal muscle loss is a risk factor for developing dementia, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
A pioneering study has meticulously mapped the brain’s intricate neural pathways, shedding light on how specific regions work together to control impulsive actions. By employing advanced neuroimaging and noninvasive brain stimulation techniques, researchers uncover the mechanisms that allow us to halt unwanted actions.
Finally this week, new research reveals the unique human ability to conceptualize numbers may be rooted deep within the brain.
The four sensory networks of the brain network partition. The partition comprises four sensory networks, with the somatomotor network encompassing the somatosensory cortex. The thalamus contains parcels of each sensory network. Credit: Molecular Psychiatry (2024).
A new approach to analyzing brain scans could help researchers better understand psychiatric illness using much smaller groups of patients than previously thought necessary, potentially accelerating the development of more precise mental health treatments.
A new study reveals how specific brain cells called interneurons can act as our in-built traffic controllers. The findings are published in the journal PLOS Biology.
Younger and middle-aged patients seem to be disproportionately affected by neurologic manifestations of post-acute sequelae of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection (Neuro-PASC), according to a study publishedin the Annals of Neurology.
Investigators have defined new biologic and clinical biomarkers for better identifying patients with different stages of Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
Researchers have developed the most detailed 3D computational models of key brain regions, including the hippocampus and sensory cortices, to better understand their roles in memory formation and connectivity.
New research provides critical insights into the role of sleep in motor learning for individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study sheds light on how sleep, specifically a short nap, influences brain activity associated with motor skill improvement, with implications for optimizing rehabilitation strategies.
A recent study of high school football players found that concussions affect an often-overlooked but important brain signal.
Cognitive neuroscientists at Trinity College Dublin have published new research describing a brand new approach to making habit change achievable and lasting.
A new study uncovers constant communication between the human brain’s social cognitive network, responsible for understanding others’ thoughts, and the amygdala, known for processing fear and emotions. High-resolution brain scans revealed that this connection helps the brain integrate emotional importance into social interactions. This insight could lead to non-invasive treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for anxiety and depression by targeting these regions. The findings highlight how evolutionary brain expansion enhances social understanding while linking it to ancient emotional processing centers.
Neuroscientists have demonstrated that dopamine and serotonin work in opposition to shape learning.
Researchers have identified a novel role for the brain’s ‘locus coeruleus’ in sleep and its disruptions. This brain region facilitates the transition between NREM and REM sleep states while maintaining an unconscious vigilance toward the external world. Stress disrupts its functions and negatively impacts on sleep quality.
A new method to profile gene activity in the living human brain has been developed by researchers at FutureNeuro, the Research Ireland Center for Translational Brain Science and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, in collaboration with international partners. This innovative approach, published in JCI Insight, opens new avenues for understanding and treating neurological conditions such as epilepsy.
A study led by the University of Glasgow has revealed differences in the brains of pediatric and adult patients that might explain the sometimes catastrophic outcomes seen in children following a traumatic brain injury.
Finally this week, new research has examined the relationship of emotion regulation to real-world responses to stress to better understand stress-related increases in suicide risk in depression.
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