Brain News and Research

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The human brain is the center of the human nervous system and is a highly complex organ. Enclosed in the cranium, it has the same general structure as the brains of other mammals, but is over three times as large as the brain of a typical mammal with an equivalent body size.

Study sheds light on molecular underpinnings of long-term memory

On a late summer day in 1953, a young man who would soon be known as patient H.M. underwent experimental surgery.

From Harvard Medical School 10 Dec 2020

UM researcher adds to timeline of human evolution by studying an island fox

Nearly two decades ago, a small-bodied "human-like" fossil, Homo floresiensis, was discovered on an island in Indonesia.

10 Dec 2020

Researchers develop a diagnostic tool for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Infrared analyses of neuronal proteins provide information on molecular changes in patients with ALS. This helps to verify their diagnosis.

10 Dec 2020

Damage to brain cells causes a chain reaction that impacts 'bystander' neurons

Injury or disease that afflicts a relatively small number of brain cells causes a chain reaction that stops activity across a vast network of neural circuits, according to new research from Oregon Health & Science University.

9 Dec 2020

Researchers use new decoding method to identify novel proteins encoded by HSV-1

Comprehensive identification of viral proteins encoded by viral genes is required to understand the pathophysiology of viral infections.

8 Dec 2020

Astrocytes modulate balance in neural networks, control decision making

Decision-making during goal-directed behaviors is deliberative process involving different brain areas that considers pros and cons of each option.

8 Dec 2020

Study shows fluorescent protein molecules act as tiny antennas with optical properties

Scientists have revealed that fluorescent protein molecules serve as antennas with optical characteristics according to their spatial orientation.

4 Dec 2020

Research may lead to new strategies for calcium malabsorption

A Rutgers study has discovered that vitamin D regulates calcium in a section of the intestine that previously was thought not to have played a key role.

From Rutgers University 2 Dec 2020

Researchers develop new tool to study genes associated with autism spectrum disorder

Researchers have developed technology to analyze the function of different types of genes found in many types of cells in a living organism, at the same time.

1 Dec 2020

Scientists successfully edit SIV virus from genomes of non-human primates

Taking a major step forward in HIV research, scientists at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University have successfully edited SIV - a virus closely related to HIV, the cause of AIDS - from the genomes of non-human primates.

1 Dec 2020

Researchers identify molecular mechanisms that reverse aging

Cellular reprogramming can reverse the aging that leads to a decline in the activities and functions of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs).

1 Dec 2020

Cell survival protein could protect the kidneys from 'bystander' damage during cancer therapy

Australian researchers have identified a protein that could protect the kidneys from 'bystander' damage caused by cancer therapies.

From Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) 26 Nov 2020

Researchers identify promising treatments for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease

Scientists from The Mount Sinai Hospital and the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology based in Japan have recently discovered novel molecular mechanisms that drive late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD).

25 Nov 2020

Hormone that suppresses food intake could help tackle obesity

A hormone that can suppress food intake and increase the feeling of fullness in mice has shown similar results in humans and non-human primates, says a new study published today in eLife.

25 Nov 2020

Researchers identify new gene involved in neurodevelopmental disorders

Researchers and physicians constantly search for novel disease genes that can allow them to figure out why medical problems are not diagnosed in patients.

24 Nov 2020

Novel targeted therapy blocks critical metabolic pathways in cancer cells

Scientists have designed a new targeted therapy, known as POMHEX, which inhibits vital metabolic pathways in tumor cells containing specific genetic defects.

24 Nov 2020

Genetic modification in the ‘coat’ of fatal brain virus may allow it to escape antibodies

A genetic modification in the 'coat' of a brain infection-causing virus may allow it to escape antibodies, according to Penn State College of Medicine researchers.

23 Nov 2020

Adipose tissue plays key role in the aggravation of COVID-19

There is growing evidence that adipose tissue plays a key role in the aggravation of COVID-19. One of the theories under investigation is that fat cells (adipocytes) act as a reservoir for SARS-CoV-2 and increase viral load in obese or overweight individuals.

23 Nov 2020

Biologists unravel how tissue geometry influences cell migration

Cells move constantly throughout our bodies, performing myriad operations critical to tissue development, immune responses, and general wellbeing. This bustle is guided by chemical cues long studied by scientists interested in cellular migration.

23 Nov 2020

Scientists discover how abnormal proteins unleash latent toxicity in neurodegenerative diseases

Thanks to modern medicine, humans tend to live much longer than before. Unfortunately, this also opens a wider window to develop chronic diseases with late-onset, such as neurodegenerative diseases.

23 Nov 2020