Tag: mental health

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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Scientists have highlighted the most effective treatments for neurological diseases by overcoming one of medicine’s most difficult challenges: the blood–brain barrier. The findings offer new hope for patients with conditions including Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease, brain tumors, and epilepsy.

A study conducted in Finland showed that changes in the functioning of opioid neurotransmitters in the brain may underlie anorexia.

Poorer cardiovascular health in childhood and adolescence may be linked to early differences in brain structure, particularly in areas of the brain known to be affected in dementia in later life, according to a new scientific study.

Researchers have uncovered how specific patterns in brain activity can predict an individual’s sensitivity to pain, expanding opportunities for improved pain management strategies.

Delayed rapid eye movement (REM) sleep may be an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers found that participants with delayed REM sleep had higher levels of toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer’s and reduced levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports memory.

The microbial ecosystems in our mouths may impact cognitive function as we age, with pathogenic bacteria linked to cognitive decline.

New research suggests that mood swings in bipolar disorder are regulated by two clocks: the body’s 24-hour circadian rhythm and a dopamine-based clock that influences alertness. When these clocks align at specific intervals, they may trigger shifts between mania and depression.

A study in the Journal of Neuroscience reveals a new mechanism for how brain cells transmit signals from their tips to their nucleus, triggering gene activation crucial for learning and memory.

Investigators have discovered that activity in two widely distributed brain networks previously considered separate are actually correlated with each other and together play a key role in recognition memory, according to a study published in Cell Reports.

Cannabinoids offer new hope for safe and effective pain relief.

Researchers analyzed the genetic connection of retinal cells and several neuropsychiatric disorders. By combining different datasets, they found that schizophrenia risk genes were associated with specific neurons in the retina. The involved risk genes suggest an impairment of synapse biology, so the ability of neurons to communicate with each other. This impairment might also be present in the brains of schizophrenia patients.

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have identified a deficit in contrast perception in people with schizophrenia.

A study of nearly 1,000 people with post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) revealed that two-thirds still experienced significant symptoms, including reduced exercise capacity and cognitive performance, two years after infection. Persistent symptom clusters included fatigue, neurocognitive disturbances, and post-exertional malaise, with worse outcomes in individuals with obesity, lower education, or severe initial infections.

Finally this week, new research shows diets high in processed meat, fast food, and sugary drinks accelerate biological aging, even in young adults.

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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Cortical gray matter volume trajectories based on the functional location of the changes in gestational mothers (N = 179). Credit: Nature Communications (2025).

A new study has analyzed the brains of women during pregnancy for the first time using neuroimaging techniques. The research shows that there is a reduction and partial recovery of almost 5% of gray matter in 94% of the total gray matter volume of the brain, especially in regions linked to social cognition.

An international team has shown the relationship of activity of neurotransmitters to how humans process the emotional content of language.

More than half of 23-year-olds in a European study show restrictive, emotional or uncontrolled eating behaviours, according to new research led by the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King’s College London. Structural brain differences appear to play a role in the development of these eating habits.

A new framework links brainwaves to individual cognitive states.

In a recent study, scientists have shown neurotransmitters in the human brain are active during the processing of the emotional content of language, providing new understanding into how people interpret the significance of words.

A new study shows stem cell therapy ‘jump-start’ brain repair after stroke.

Researchers have developed a flexible, biodegradable electrode capable of stimulating neural precursor cells in the brain, offering a safer and more precise alternative for neural repair. The electrode dissolves naturally after seven days, eliminating the need for surgical removal while promoting tissue regeneration.

Music supports babies in neonatal intensive care units, according to a recent neuroimaging study.

A study analyzing data from over 130 million individuals found that antibiotics, antivirals, vaccines, and anti-inflammatory medications are associated with a reduced risk of dementia. This supports the idea that infections and inflammation contribute to dementia and highlights the potential of repurposing existing drugs for prevention or treatment.

New research has uncovered psychological profiles associated with mental and brain health in middle-aged and older adults.

An experimental treatment for depression that triggers seizures with magnets significantly improved mental health in patients without some cognitive effects associated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), according to a clinical trial led by UT Southwestern Medical Center.

A research team has gathered new insight into the neural underpinnings of human cooperation.

A new study has identified three psychological profiles that influence brain health, cognitive decline, and dementia risk in aging adults. Profiles with high protective traits, like purpose and openness, show better cognition and brain integrity, while those with low protective traits or high negative traits face accelerated brain atrophy and mental health issues.

Stanford Medicine scientists are generating a periodic table of sorts for psychiatric disorders, providing a better understanding of these conditions and paving the way toward targeted treatment.

A study analyzing data from over 2 million veterans found that GLP-1 receptor agonists, popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, provide significant neurological and behavioral health benefits, including reduced risks of addiction, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. However, they also pose risks for pancreatitis and kidney conditions.

Finally, this week, a brain signal that lights up when we anticipate rewards may hold the secret to helping people overcome depression, and researchers are working to unlock its potential.

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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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.

Increasing physical fitness levels has a causal link with better language comprehension, according to the first study to show this effect.

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, increases the risk for dementia.

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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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.

10 Things You Can Do for Better Brain Health in 2025

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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.

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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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.

A new study reveals that humans think at a rate of 10 bits per second, while sensory systems process a billion bits per second—100 million times faster. 

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.

Why Keeping New Year’s Resolutions Is All in the Mind: A Neuroscientific Perspective

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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.

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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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 are identified in 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.

Brain scans show vulnerability to gaming addiction in teens.

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.

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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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 a new 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. 

Weekly Neuroscience Update

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Large-scale functional networks are embedded along two principal gradients. Credit: Nature Neuroscience (2024).

Scientists have uncovered how different types of brain cells work together to form large-scale functional networks in the human brain—interconnected systems that support everything from sensory processing to complex decision-making—paving the way for new insights into brain health and disease.

A new neuroimaging marker of cerebral small vessel disease is related to general cognition and may serve to identify persons at risk of dementia in future clinical trials, a landmark study has found.

A recent study reveals that the genetic mutation causing Huntington’s disease (HD) enhances brain development and intelligence in early life, but leads to degeneration in adulthood. Children with the HD gene exhibit larger brains and higher IQs than those without the mutation.

In what could one day become a new treatment for epilepsy, researchers have used pulses of light to prevent seizure-like activity in neurons.

A team of researchers has found that certain factors are linked to faster brain shrinkage and quicker progression from normal thinking abilities to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). People with type 2 diabetes and low levels of specific proteins in their cerebrospinal fluid showed more rapid brain changes and developed MCI sooner than others.

A new study explores how brain waves reflect melody predictions while listening to music.

Neuroscientists have identified the binding site of low-dose ketamine, providing critical insight into how the medication, often described as a wonder drug, alleviates symptoms of major depression in as little as a few hours with effects lasting for several days.

New research indicates that cannabis use causes cellular damage that increases the risk of highly cancerous tumors by disrupting mitochondria and damaging DNA. 

Fampridine, used for improving walking in multiple sclerosis, may also enhance working memory in individuals with schizophrenia or depression. A study found that the drug significantly improved working memory in participants with initially poor performance, but had no effect on those with strong baseline memory.

A recent study links satellite and brain imaging data to identify how environmental factors can impact mental health, cognition and brain development in young people.

A new Alzheimer’s test collects just a few drops of blood from a finger prick, which can be mailed to a lab for analysis. The test measures biomarkers like pTau217 and has shown similar accuracy to traditional venous blood sampling.

Children born to mothers who take antiseizure medications during pregnancy may face increased risks of neurodevelopmental conditions, according to new data.

Researchers have shed light on the puzzling relationship between dopamine and rest tremor in Parkinson’s disease, finding that preserved dopamine in certain brain regions may actually contribute to tremor symptoms, challenging common beliefs.

New research has revealed the diverse assembly and regulation of Type-A GABA receptors (GABAARs), which are crucial for balancing brain activity. 

A recent study has found fascinating similarities in how the human brain and artificial intelligence models process language. The research, published in Nature Communications, suggests that the brain, like AI systems such as GPT-2, may use a continuous, context-sensitive embedding space to derive meaning from language, a breakthrough that could reshape our understanding of neural language processing.

A team of researchers has investigated the composition and communication of cells in so-called subcortical lesions, tissue damage to deep brain structures at different stages of multiple sclerosis.

Care for stroke survivors urgently needs to focus on non-motor skill outcomes such as fatigue, anxiety and reduced social participation to improve survivors’ quality of life and minimize care needs, according to a new study.

An international research collaboration has discovered how unusual spherical structures form in the brains of people with a mutation that causes a form of inherited Alzheimer’s disease. 

A new study identifies previously hidden brain network patterns in schizophrenia by focusing on nonlinear connectivity, offering potential biomarkers for early diagnosis. Traditional imaging methods often overlook these patterns, but researchers developed advanced statistical tools to uncover this new dimension of brain organization.

Finally this week, research published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society has identified several community-level factors that may increase people’s risk of experiencing cognitive impairment.