Summary: A new study combines rodent circuitry mapping with ultra-high-field 7T human fMRI to investigate periaqueductal gray (PAG) regulation. By identifying the upstream brain regions that govern this core midbrain…
Category: PTSD
C1 Neurons Identified as Master Anxiety Switch
Summary: Researchers discovered that a specific subpopulation of epinephrine-producing cells, known as C1 neurons, act as master controllers of fear and persistent anxiety. Normally, these cells sound a brief, temporary…
Trauma Therapy Reverses PTSD in Psychosis Patients
Summary: A new study reveals that individuals living with co-occurring psychosis and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can safely and effectively achieve recovery through an integrated, trauma-focused therapy. The STAR (Study…
Unmasking the Epigenetic Disparity in Anxiety Disorders
Summary: Researchers have been awarded a five-year, $3.2 million grant from the U.S. National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Mental Health. The research targets the precise epigenetic networks within…
How the Brain Replays Sight to Create Mental Images
Summary: Have you ever wondered why a memory can feel as vivid as a photograph? A groundbreaking study has finally cracked the “neural code” behind visual imagination. By recording the…
Ultrasound Helps to Unlearn Fear
Summary: Can we “unlearn” fear using sound? Neuroscientists demonstrated for the first time that targeted ultrasonic waves can help the human brain overcome fearful memories more quickly. By directing high-frequency,…
Spectrum of Hyperarousal: Seven Distinct Types of Tension Identified
Summary: “Hyperarousal” is a cornerstone of many mental health conditions, from insomnia and ADHD to depression and PTSD. However, the term has historically been used as a “catch-all,” leading to…
Psychedelics Remodel Myelin to Heal PTSD
Summary: For years, scientists have focused on how psychedelics “rewire” neurons. But a groundbreaking study has found a “missing link” in long-term PTSD recovery: myelin remodeling. Researchers discovered that psilocybin…
PTSD Linked to Accelerated Brain Aging
Summary: A new study using advanced deep-learning brain age estimation shows that World Trade Center responders with PTSD exhibit signs of accelerated brain aging. Using BrainAgeNeXt, a model trained on…
Hormonal Contraceptives Influence Memory of Emotional Events
Summary: A new study reveals that hormonal contraceptives may shape both emotional responses and memory processing in women. Compared with naturally cycling women, users of hormonal birth control had stronger…
