How hunger influences aversive learning in fruit flies

AKHR neurons connect to DANs via ascending SEZ output neurons. Credit: Neuron (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.04.035 Internal states that animals experience while they are thirsty, hungry, sleepy or aggressive have been…

Tau May Protect Brain Cells from Oxidative Damage

Summary: Researchers have discovered that the Tau protein, often linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, also has a protective role in the brain. Tau helps combat oxidative stress by aiding…

Morphine’s Pain Relief Mechanism Unveiled

Summary: Researchers have uncovered how morphine relieves pain by activating a specific group of neurons in the brain, termed the ‘morphine ensemble.’ These neurons, located in the rostral ventromedial medulla…

Music study links dulled emotional reactions in anhedonia with prolonged activity of the brain’s attentional networks

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Anhedonia-related emotional blunting is linked with abnormally sustained activity in brain areas responsible for attention. Researchers at the Department of Neuroimaging at the IoPPN used music…

Dogs Using Soundboard Buttons Understand Words

Summary: A new study reveals that dogs trained with soundboard buttons can comprehend and respond to specific words, indicating they may truly understand the words and not just react to…

Increase in Protein Linked to Salt Intake Implicated in Multiple Sclerosis

Summary: Researchers have uncovered that increased levels of the protein PRDM1-S, triggered by high salt intake, disrupt immune regulation and contribute to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). This discovery…

Gender Nonconformity in Play Linked to ASD and Behavioral Problems

Summary: A new study reveals that gender nonconforming play behavior in 7-year-olds is associated with increased behavioral difficulties, including autistic traits in girls and peer relationship issues in boys. Researchers…

Hidden Dopamine Neurons Balance Brain Functions and Behavior

Summary: Researchers identified a small group of dopamine neurons in the striatum that play a crucial role in balancing essential brain functions such as reward, cognition, and movement. This discovery…

What Your Movie Preferences Reveal About Your Brain’s Emotions

Summary: A new study reveals that your favorite film genre may indicate how your brain processes emotions. Action and comedy lovers show strong brain reactions to negative stimuli, while those…

Children’s Curiosity or Memory Gaps? Why Kids Over-Explore Tasks

Summary: Children often gather more information than needed to complete a task, even when they know the solution. A new study suggests this “over-exploration” might stem from either natural curiosity…