A new study reveals how the brain determines whether a smell is pleasant or revolting, highlighting the role of the amygdala and two genetically distinct cell types that can assign either positive or negative value to odors. This discovery could lead to treatments for anxiety, PTSD, or sensory disorders.
A new study reveals that caffeine increases the complexity of brain activity during sleep, especially in younger adults, potentially disrupting the brain’s ability to recover overnight. Researchers used EEG and AI to analyze sleep in 40 adults after caffeine or placebo intake, identifying less predictable brain signals and increased wake-like brainwave patterns.
A new scientific review maps the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind memory formation, consolidation, generalization, and updating, revealing how memories are stored, altered, and even manipulated in the brain. Key breakthroughs allow scientists to visualize and activate specific neurons involved in memory, offering deeper insight into how learning occurs and how fear memories may become overgeneralized in disorders like PTSD.
A new study reveals the role of the molecule KIBRA in forming long-term memories. Researchers found that KIBRA acts as a “glue,” binding with the enzyme PKMzeta to strengthen and stabilize synapses, crucial for memory retention.
A detailed map of the cells and synapses in a segment of a human brain sample has been created through a collaboration between Harvard and Google. The ultimate goal is to create a full map of a human brain like this, with each synapse and other structures detailed.
