Surge in Microdosing Interest Linked to Relaxed Drug Policies

Summary: A new study reveals a 1250% increase in Google searches for micro dosing from 2015 to 2023, driven by relaxed regulations on cannabis and psychedelics. The research shows policy…

Depression Linked to Amygdala Activity

Summary: A new study reveals how depression affects brain activity in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) of rats. Using a microelectrode array, researchers found increased theta frequency activity in the BLA…

Brain Control of Escape Behavior May Unlock Anxiety Treatments

Summary: Researchers discovered how the brain controls sensitivity to threats, influencing escape behavior in mice. The study found that inhibitory neurons in the periaqueductal gray (PAG) regulate both the initiation…

MDMA Variants Show Promise for Safer Psychotherapy

Summary: Researchers developed three new MDMA variants (ODMA, TDMA, and SeDMA) that retain the therapeutic benefits while reducing side effects. These compounds affect mood-regulating brain structures similarly to MDMA but…

Unlocking Flow: The Neuroscience of Creative Bliss

Summary: A new study involving Philadelphia-area jazz guitarists, has explored the brain processes that enable creative flow. The research reveals that achieving flow requires a solid foundation of expertise, after…

“Supernatural” Experiences Comfort Grieving Pet Owners

Summary: A new study explores the phenomenon of supernatural visits from deceased pets. Analyzing 544 accounts from dog owners on social media, researchers found that about half of these experiences…

How Sex and Gender Shape Our Cognition

Summary: Researchers released a new study examining how sex and gender influence cognitive abilities. The study analyzed eight cognitive tasks and found that while spatial cognition correlates more with biological…

Paints and Pesticides Linked to ALS Risk

Summary: A new study reveals a possible link between storing chemicals in home garages and an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Researchers identified significant associations between ALS…

Partner Gender Influences the Pursuit of Orgasm in Women

Summary: The gender of a partner significantly affects women’s expectations and the likelihood of orgasm. By examining the “orgasm gap” between cisgender men and women, researchers uncovered that women anticipate…

Stress and Trauma Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s

Summary: Researchers linked midlife stress and childhood trauma to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and neuroinflammation. Analyzing 1,290 volunteers, researchers found that stressful life events, especially during midlife, correlate…