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PET imaging confirms direct involvement of dopamine in cognitive flexibility

Scientists have confirmed a neurobiochemical link between dopamine and cognitive flexibility. PET imaging shows that the brain increases dopamine production when completing cognitively demanding tasks, and that the more dopamine released, the more effi…

Early signs of heart problems linked to smaller brain volumes

People who have early signs of heart problems may also have changes in brain health that can be early signs of dementia, such as loss of brain volume, according to a meta-analysis. The meta-analysis does not prove that early heart problems cause loss o…

Study unlocks how diabetes distorts memory and reward processing

A research team says high blood sugar levels appear to weaken function in key part of brain, mimicking Alzheimer’s.

How did the large brain evolve?

Two specific genes that evolve exclusively in humans jointly influence the development of the cerebrum. Researchers have provided evidence that these genes contribute together to the evolutionary enlargement of the brain.

Neurons in brain that regulate energy levels and body temperature

Scientists have gained greater clarity in the brain regions and neurons that control metabolism, body temperature and energy use. A team of researchers discovered which chemicals influence the signals that control how much energy the body uses. Researc…

How movement affects the way the brain processes sound and sight

A research team has uncovered a fundamental principle of how the brain prioritizes vision and hearing differently depending on whether we are still or in motion. The study provides new insights into how movement alters the brain’s sensory decision-maki…

Study identifies Shisa7 gene as key driver in heroin addiction

Researchers have found a unique molecular signature and genes in the orbitofrontal cortex associated with heroin-seeking behavior. A preclinical rodent model implicated a gene called Shisa7 as the key predictor. A new study provides valuable insights i…

How cells respond to stress is more nuanced than previously believed

The body’s cells respond to stress — toxins, mutations, starvation or other assaults — by pausing normal functions to focus on conserving energy, repairing damaged components and boosting defenses. If the stress is manageable, cells resume normal act…

Biological pathway in the brain could help explain why teenage girls are more depressed than boys

Research has shown that a biological brain mechanism called the ‘kynurenine pathway’ is imbalanced in adolescents with depression, and this imbalance is more pronounced in teenage girls than boys.

ADHD may be associated with an increased risk of dementia

An adult brain affected by attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) presents modifications similar to those observed in individuals suffering from dementia. These are the findings of a study which shows that, compared with health…