Genetic Link Between Cannabis Use Disorder and Mental Health

Summary: A large genetic study reveals that cannabis use disorder (CanUD) is strongly linked to increased risk for multiple psychiatric disorders, including depression, PTSD, ADHD, and schizophrenia. By analyzing global…

More Than Serotonin: How Psychedelics Engage the Whole Brain

Summary: Classical psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, and mescaline are known for activating the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, but a new study reveals their effects go far beyond. Researchers profiled 41 psychedelics…

How the Brain Decodes Social Emotions and Anxiety

Summary: The anterior temporal lobe (ATL) plays a key role in interpreting social hierarchies and facial emotions, offering insight into anxiety and mood disorders. A research project used advanced imaging…

Toxoplasma Parasite Influences Personality and Aggression

Summary: New research highlights how parasitic infections can alter brain chemistry and behavior in humans. Toxoplasma gondii, among others, appears to manipulate dopamine and immune responses, increasing risk-taking, impulsivity, and…

Tiny Brain Region Orchestrates How We Segment and Remember Life Events

Summary: Our memories don’t flow like a continuous stream—they’re divided into meaningful events, thanks to a tiny brain region called the locus coeruleus. New research shows this region acts like…

Hepatitis C Found in Brain Lining Linked to Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder

Summary: Researchers have discovered hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the brain lining of individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, suggesting a possible link between infection and psychiatric symptoms. The study…

Oxytocin Protects Mood During Sleep Loss

Summary: New research suggests oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone,” may help protect women from mood disturbances caused by sleep disruption and hormonal changes during postpartum and menopause. In a controlled…

Maternal Depression Linked to Weaker Bonds

Summary: A comprehensive global review confirms that maternal depression undermines parenting, impairing mother-infant bonding and reducing sensitivity to a child’s needs. Researchers analyzed nearly a decade of observational studies, finding…

Spotting Silent Scars: A New Way to Detect Childhood Abuse

Summary: Childhood maltreatment leaves profound and often unseen scars, affecting mental health, physical well-being, and social development long into adulthood. Traditional assessments are invasive and often miss the full scope…

Familiar Faces and Fights: What Monkeys Like to Watch Most

Summary: A new study reveals that long-tailed macaques, like humans, are most captivated by videos featuring social conflict and familiar group members. Researchers showed the macaques videos of monkeys engaged…