Summary: The largest exome-sequencing study of schizophrenia to date has uncovered eight new genes tied to the disorder. Two genes, STAG1 and ZNF136, were strongly implicated, while six others showed…
Tag: brain research
Boosting Prefrontal Dopamine Shows Promise in Cutting Alcohol Use
Summary: A new study reveals that tolcapone, a dopamine-enhancing drug, strengthens brain circuits involved in self-control while reducing alcohol intake in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The drug boosts…
Highly Sensitive People Face Greater Mental Health Risks
Summary: A large-scale meta-analysis of 33 studies has shown that highly sensitive individuals are more prone to common mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and avoidant personality disorder. Sensitivity…
Bipolar Mood Shifts Linked to Insulin Signaling in the Pancreas
Summary: A new study uncovers a pancreas–hippocampus feedback loop that may help explain mood swings in bipolar disorder. Using patient-derived pancreatic islets, researchers found reduced insulin secretion linked to elevated…
Caffeine in the Morning Gives the Biggest Boost to Mood
Summary: A large real-world study of 236 young adults found that caffeine significantly boosts positive emotions, particularly in the morning. Participants who had coffee or another caffeinated drink reported feeling…
Brain Signature Reveals How We Consciously Experience Emotional Intensity
Summary: Researchers have identified a distinct brain signature linked to the conscious experience of emotional intensity. By combining AI modeling, advanced brain imaging, and realistic experimental scenarios, they measured arousal…
First “Microwave Brain” Chip Merges Ultrafast Data and Wireless Signals
Summary: Researchers have built the first “microwave brain” chip capable of processing both ultrafast data and wireless communication signals at once. By harnessing analog, nonlinear microwave physics instead of conventional…
Brain Circuit Model Reveals How Striatum Shapes Everyday Decisions
Summary: Researchers have developed a computational framework that maps how the striosomal compartment of the striatum governs everyday decision-making. By integrating biology, decision theory, and mathematical modeling, the study reveals…
Neuron Discovery Could Help Restore Breathing After Spinal Injuries
Summary: Scientists have discovered a specialized group of spinal cord interneurons that help regulate breathing when the body faces challenges like high carbon dioxide levels. Blocking these neurons impaired the…
When Gut Rhythms Over-Sync With the Brain, Mental Strain Rises
Summary: A large-scale study has found that unusually strong coordination between brain activity and the stomach’s slow, rhythmic waves may signal greater mental distress. Using fMRI and electrogastrography on more…
