https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/mind_brain/schizophrenia/ Read current medical research on schizophrenia symptoms, medication and more. Browse health articles on schizophrenia treatments including anti-psychotic drugs. en-us Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:57:06 EDT Fri, 17 Apr 2026 08:57:06 EDT 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/mind_brain/schizophrenia/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260405003933.htm Scientists in Canada have uncovered a surprising weakness in glioblastoma, one of the deadliest brain cancers. They found that certain brain cells—once believed to only support healthy nerves—can actually help tumors grow by sending signals that strengthen cancer cells. When researchers blocked this communication, tumor growth slowed dramatically in lab models. Sun, 05 Apr 2026 19:48:12 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260405003933.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042740.htm A newly identified gene mutation may help explain why schizophrenia patients struggle to update their understanding of reality. The mutation disrupts a brain circuit involved in flexible decision-making, causing mice to stick with outdated choices even when conditions change. Researchers pinpointed the issue to a key thalamus–prefrontal cortex pathway. By reactivating this circuit, they were able to restore normal behavior—raising hope for future therapies. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 03:10:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/04/260402042740.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005526.htm Scientists have uncovered a hidden “death switch” in the brain that may be driving Alzheimer’s disease—and even found a way to turn it off in mice. The culprit is a toxic pairing of two proteins that, when combined, triggers the destruction of brain cells and fuels memory loss. By using a new compound to break apart this deadly duo, researchers were able to slow disease progression, protect brain cells, and even reduce hallmark amyloid buildup. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:34:10 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260323005526.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225125.htm A new UCLA Health study suggests that long-term exposure to the pesticide chlorpyrifos may dramatically raise the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Researchers found that people living in areas with sustained exposure had more than 2.5 times the likelihood of developing the disorder. Lab experiments reinforced the finding: animals exposed to the chemical developed movement problems, lost dopamine-producing neurons, and showed the same toxic protein buildup seen in Parkinson’s patients. Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:49:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315225125.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081150.htm Scientists have zeroed in on a critical weak spot behind a rare but devastating brain autoimmune disorder often known as “Brain on Fire.” The disease strikes when the immune system attacks NMDA receptors—key molecules involved in memory and thinking—leading to psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and even death. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:08:42 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260225081150.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219040820.htm A groundbreaking clinical trial is testing whether specially engineered stem cells can help the brain restore its own dopamine production in people with Parkinson’s disease. Because the condition is driven by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells—leading to tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement—researchers are implanting lab-grown cells directly into the brain’s movement center to replace what’s been lost. Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:03:58 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219040820.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206020852.htm New research using rhesus monkeys suggests that the brain’s relationship with alcohol may begin forming long before a person ever takes a drink. Scientists found that exposure to alcohol before birth reshaped the brain’s dopamine system, a key player in motivation and reward, and those changes were linked to faster drinking later in adulthood. Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:26:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206020852.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206012203.htm Scientists at Keck Medicine of USC are testing an experimental stem cell therapy that aims to restore the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, the chemical whose loss drives Parkinson’s disease. The early-stage clinical trial involves implanting lab-grown dopamine-producing cells directly into a key movement-control region of the brain, with the hope of slowing disease progression and improving motor function. Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:57:35 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206012203.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127010138.htm Findings could create new opportunities to treat and study neurodegenerative diseasesScientists discovered that sugar metabolism plays a surprising role in whether injured neurons collapse or cling to life. By activating internal protective programs, certain metabolic changes can temporarily slow neurodegeneration—hinting at new ways to help the brain defend itself. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 08:09:25 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260127010138.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260124003829.htm Researchers have found that a natural aging-related molecule can repair key memory processes affected by Alzheimer’s disease. The compound improves communication between brain cells and restores early memory abilities that typically fade first. Because it already exists in the body and declines with age, boosting it may offer a safer way to protect the brain. The discovery hints at a new strategy for slowing cognitive ageing before severe damage sets in. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 02:17:02 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260124003829.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260122074033.htm New research suggests that auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia may come from a brain glitch that confuses inner thoughts for external voices. Normally, the brain predicts the sound of its own inner speech and tones down its response. But in people hearing voices, brain activity ramps up instead, as if the voice belongs to someone else. The discovery could help scientists develop early warning signs for psychosis. Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:46:23 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260122074033.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260120095111.htm Researchers have identified a key molecular interaction that accelerates Parkinson’s disease by damaging the brain’s energy systems. They designed a new treatment that intercepts this harmful process, protecting brain cells and restoring their function. In lab and animal models, the approach improved movement and cognitive performance while reducing inflammation. The findings point toward a new generation of Parkinson’s therapies aimed at the root cause, not just the symptoms. Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:08:47 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260120095111.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260116085131.htm Scientists have discovered that the adolescent brain does more than prune old connections. During the teen years, it actively builds dense new clusters of synapses in specific parts of neurons. These clusters emerge only in adolescence and may help shape higher-level thinking. When the process is disrupted, it could play a role in conditions like schizophrenia. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:09:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260116085131.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260116035348.htm Researchers have identified OTULIN, an immune-regulating enzyme, as a key trigger of tau buildup in the brain. When OTULIN was disabled, tau vanished from neurons and brain cells remained healthy. The findings challenge long-held assumptions about tau’s necessity and highlight a promising new path for fighting Alzheimer’s and brain aging. Scientists now believe OTULIN may act as a master switch for inflammation and age-related brain decline. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 03:53:48 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260116035348.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260113220915.htm Despite longstanding guidelines, many dementia patients are still prescribed brain-altering medications that can raise the risk of falls and confusion. A new study shows that while prescribing has decreased overall, people with cognitive impairment remain more likely to receive these drugs. In many cases, there was no documented medical justification. The results suggest that medication safety remains a serious concern in dementia care. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 23:17:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260113220915.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106001913.htm Many people with multiple sclerosis struggle with balance and coordination, and this study uncovers a hidden reason why. Researchers found that inflammation in the brain disrupts the energy supply of vital movement-controlling neurons. As their mitochondria fail, these cells weaken and eventually die, worsening motor problems over time. Protecting brain energy systems could open the door to slowing these symptoms. Tue, 06 Jan 2026 03:18:40 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106001913.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228074451.htm Tiny lab-grown brains are offering an unprecedented look at how schizophrenia and bipolar disorder disrupt neural activity. Researchers found distinct electrical firing patterns that could identify these conditions with high accuracy. The discovery opens the door to more precise diagnoses and personalized drug testing. Instead of guessing medications, doctors may one day see what works before treating the patient. Sun, 28 Dec 2025 07:44:51 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251228074451.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223084855.htm A massive global genetics study is reshaping how we understand mental illness—and why diagnoses so often pile up. By analyzing genetic data from more than six million people, researchers uncovered deep genetic connections across 14 psychiatric conditions, showing that many disorders share common biological roots. Instead of existing in isolation, these conditions fall into five overlapping families, helping explain why depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders so frequently occur together. Sat, 03 Jan 2026 02:28:04 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251223084855.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251221043225.htm A new study shows dopamine isn’t the brain’s movement “gas pedal” after all. Instead of setting speed or strength, it quietly enables movement in the background, much like oil in an engine. When scientists manipulated dopamine during movement, nothing changed—but restoring baseline dopamine levels made a big difference. The finding could reshape how Parkinson’s disease is treated. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:38:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251221043225.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251210223635.htm Researchers uncovered how shifting levels of a brain protein called KCC2 can reshape the way cues become linked with rewards, sometimes making habits form more quickly or more powerfully than expected. When this protein drops, dopamine neurons fire more intensely, strengthening new associations in ways that resemble how addictive behaviors take hold. Rat studies showed that even brief, synchronized bursts of neural activity can amplify reward learning, offering insight into why everyday triggers, like a morning routine, can provoke strong cravings. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 22:41:05 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251210223635.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251204024234.htm Researchers studying people with major psychiatric disorders found that drinking up to four cups of coffee a day is associated with longer telomeres. This suggests a potential slowing of biological aging by about five years. However, drinking five or more cups showed no benefit and may even contribute to cellular damage. Coffee’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help explain the effect. Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:09:51 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251204024234.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251202052230.htm Scientists have discovered that a single gene, GRIN2A, can directly cause mental illness—something previously thought to stem only from many genes acting together. People with certain variants of this gene often develop psychiatric symptoms much earlier than expected, sometimes in childhood instead of adulthood. Even more surprising, some individuals show only mental health symptoms, without the seizures or learning problems usually linked to GRIN2A. Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:01:34 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251202052230.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251126095034.htm Researchers identified a new, sticky form of mitochondrial DNA damage that builds up at dramatically higher levels than in nuclear DNA. These lesions disrupt energy production and activate stress-response pathways. Simulations show the damage makes mtDNA more rigid, possibly marking it for removal. The finding offers fresh clues to inflammation, aging, and diseases such as diabetes and neurodegeneration. Fri, 28 Nov 2025 04:29:25 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251126095034.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251123115708.htm Hypertension begins harming the brain surprisingly early, even before measurable blood pressure increases. Key cells related to blood vessels, signaling, and myelin maintenance begin aging prematurely and malfunctioning. These disruptions resemble early patterns seen in cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. Encouragingly, losartan reversed some of this early damage in mice. Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:33:36 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251123115708.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251123085557.htm Researchers have uncovered a surprising way the brain switches pain on, revealing that neurons can release an enzyme outside the cell that activates pain signals without disrupting normal movement or sensation. This enzyme, called VLK, modifies nearby proteins in a way that intensifies pain and strengthens connections tied to learning and memory. Removing VLK in mice dramatically reduced post-surgery pain while leaving normal function untouched, offering a promising path toward safer, more targeted pain treatments. Sun, 23 Nov 2025 11:33:03 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251123085557.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251121090740.htm Researchers uncovered how estrogen subtly reshapes learning by strengthening dopamine reward signals in the brain. Rats learned faster when estrogen levels were high and struggled when the hormone’s activity was blocked. The findings help explain how hormonal cycles influence cognitive performance and psychiatric symptoms. This connection offers a new path for understanding brain disorders tied to dopamine. Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:32:51 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251121090740.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251106003155.htm Weill Cornell researchers uncovered how free radicals from astrocyte mitochondria can fuel dementia. Using new compounds that target these radicals at their source, they slowed brain inflammation and neuronal damage in mice. The findings reveal a potential breakthrough for treating diseases like Alzheimer’s and frontotemporal dementia by focusing on the precise mechanisms driving degeneration. Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:31:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251106003155.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251101000713.htm Researchers discovered that altering the body’s natural rhythm can help protect the brain from Alzheimer’s damage. By turning off a circadian protein in mice, they raised NAD+ levels and reduced harmful tau buildup. The findings suggest that adjusting the body’s clock may one day help prevent neurodegeneration. Sat, 01 Nov 2025 09:20:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251101000713.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251020092828.htm Scientists at UCSF have uncovered evidence that multiple sclerosis silently damages the brain years before diagnosis. By studying proteins in blood samples, they identified early immune signals and markers of nerve damage. The findings point to IL-3 and MOG as crucial early indicators — and open the door to new diagnostic blood tests and preventive strategies. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 03:14:36 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251020092828.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251014014312.htm Researchers have synthesized enhanced vitamin K analogues that outperform natural vitamin K in promoting neuron growth. The new compounds, which combine vitamin K with retinoic acid, activate the mGluR1 receptor to drive neurogenesis. They also efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier and show stability in vivo. This discovery could pave the way for regenerative treatments for Alzheimer’s and related diseases. Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:08:36 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251014014312.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251013040328.htm People experiencing their first psychotic episode who also have skin conditions such as rashes or itching are at greater risk of depression and suicidal thoughts, according to new research presented at the ECNP meeting. Scientists found that 25% of these patients experienced suicidal ideation, compared with only 7% of those without skin issues. The study suggests that dermatological symptoms could serve as early warning markers for worse psychiatric outcomes. Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:58:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251013040328.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251011102259.htm Researchers have identified two compounds, K102 and K110, that could repair the nerve damage from multiple sclerosis. These drugs help regenerate the protective myelin sheath and balance immune responses. Licensed by Cadenza Bio, the discovery represents a leap from lab research to potential clinical therapy. If successful, it could transform how neurodegenerative diseases are treated. Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:22:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251011102259.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092903.htm Researchers uncovered a key cellular regulator, PP2A-B55alpha, that controls both the cleanup of damaged mitochondria and the creation of new ones. In Parkinson’s disease models, reducing this regulator improved symptoms and mitochondrial health. The findings could inspire new drugs for Parkinson’s, mitochondrial disorders, and even cancer. Sat, 04 Oct 2025 22:49:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092903.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250924012257.htm For decades, scientists believed Alzheimer’s was driven mainly by sticky protein plaques and tangles in the brain. Now Purdue researchers have revealed a hidden culprit: fat. They found that brain immune cells can become clogged with fat, leaving them too weak to fight off disease. By clearing out this fat and restoring the cells’ defenses, researchers may have uncovered an entirely new way to combat Alzheimer’s — shifting the focus from plaques alone to how the brain handles fat. Wed, 24 Sep 2025 23:56:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250924012257.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250902085158.htm Overactivation of dopamine neurons may directly drive their death, explaining why movement-controlling brain cells degenerate in Parkinson’s. Mice with chronically stimulated neurons showed the same selective damage seen in patients, along with molecular stress responses. Targeting this overactivity could help slow disease progression. Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:57:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250902085158.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250902085136.htm Virginia Tech researchers are investigating how overloaded mitochondria in the brain’s memory circuits may spark early Alzheimer’s damage. Their work focuses on calcium signaling and how it might trigger breakdowns in the entorhinal cortex. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:28:39 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250902085136.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104647.htm A sweeping review of nearly 100 studies has raised concerns about the mental health impacts of high-potency cannabis products. Researchers found strong links to psychosis, schizophrenia, and cannabis use disorder, while results for anxiety and depression were mixed and sometimes contradictory. Although the findings confirm that higher THC concentrations pose risks, the evidence still isn’t clear enough to offer firm clinical guidance, leaving scientists calling for better-designed studies to fill the gaps. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:11:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104647.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250829022829.htm Harvard scientists have uncovered that lithium, a naturally occurring element in the brain, may be the missing piece in understanding Alzheimer’s. Their decade-long research shows that lithium depletion—caused by amyloid plaques binding to it—triggers early brain changes that lead to memory loss. By testing new lithium compounds that evade plaque capture, they reversed Alzheimer’s-like damage and restored memory in mice at doses far lower than those used in psychiatric treatments. Fri, 29 Aug 2025 02:57:32 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250829022829.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250828002404.htm Using cannabis to self-medicate comes with hidden dangers—new research shows these users face higher paranoia and consume more THC. Childhood trauma further amplifies the risks, especially emotional abuse, which strongly predicts paranoia. Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:24:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250828002404.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250818102944.htm A sweeping review of 67 trials has cast doubt on the use of ketamine and similar NMDA receptor antagonists for chronic pain relief. While ketamine is frequently prescribed off-label for conditions like fibromyalgia and nerve pain, researchers found little convincing evidence of real benefit and flagged serious side effects such as delusions and nausea. The lack of data on whether it reduces depression or opioid use adds to the uncertainty. Mon, 18 Aug 2025 23:32:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250818102944.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104237.htm THC levels in cannabis have soared in recent years, raising the risk of psychosis—especially in young, frequent users. Studies reveal a strong connection between cannabis-induced psychosis and schizophrenia, making early cessation and treatment essential. Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:07:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104237.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104229.htm Researchers have discovered that parts of the human brain age more slowly than previously thought—particularly in the region that processes touch. By using ultra-high-resolution brain scans, they found that while some layers of the cerebral cortex thin with age, others remain stable or even grow thicker, suggesting remarkable adaptability. This layered resilience could explain why certain skills endure into old age, while others fade, and even reveals built-in compensatory mechanisms that help preserve function. Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:01:30 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104229.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104227.htm Scientists have discovered a direct cause-and-effect link between faulty mitochondria and the memory loss seen in neurodegenerative diseases. By creating a novel tool to boost mitochondrial activity in mouse models, researchers restored memory performance, suggesting mitochondria could be a powerful new target for treatments. The findings not only shed light on the early drivers of brain cell degeneration but also open possibilities for slowing or even preventing diseases like Alzheimer’s. Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:02:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104227.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250703230641.htm Stanford researchers discovered that dialing down an overactive enzyme, LRRK2, can regrow lost cellular “antennae” in key brain cells, restoring vital dopamine communication and neuroprotective signals in a mouse model of genetic Parkinson’s. After three months on the LRRK2-blocking drug MLi-2, damaged circuits revived and early signs of neuronal recovery emerged, hinting that timely treatment could not only halt but reverse disease progression—and perhaps benefit other Parkinson’s forms. Thu, 03 Jul 2025 23:44:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250703230641.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250630073442.htm Scientists have uncovered a surprising sugar-related mechanism inside brain cells that could transform how we fight Alzheimer’s and other dementias. It turns out neurons don’t just store sugar for fuel—they reroute it to power antioxidant defenses, but only if an enzyme called GlyP is active. When this sugar-clearing system is blocked, toxic tau protein builds up and accelerates brain degeneration. Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:04:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250630073442.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522124652.htm Worldwide, more than 55 million people suffer from dementia caused by Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and other conditions that destroy cells in the brain and nervous system. While there is no treatment to control or manage these neurodegenerative conditions, investigators have identified a new and promising drug to treat AD. The drug--and their approach by identifying a new target in the brain -- showed promising results in mouse models of AD. Thu, 22 May 2025 12:46:52 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522124652.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250521124618.htm A new study confirms that children of people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a higher risk of developing psychopathology compared to children whose parents do not have these conditions. The study, examines how the clinical and social characteristics of parents influence the mental health of their offspring. Wed, 21 May 2025 12:46:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250521124618.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250520162118.htm Using the gene scissors CRISPR and stem cells, researchers have managed to identify a common denominator for different gene mutations that all cause the neurological disease ALS. The research shows that ALS-linked dysfunction occurs in the energy factories of nerve cells, the mitochondria, before the cells show other signs of disease, which was not previously known. Tue, 20 May 2025 16:21:18 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250520162118.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250514111059.htm Neuroscientists have discovered that the brain uses a dual system for learning through trial and error. This is the first time a second learning system has been identified, which could help explain how habits are formed and provide a scientific basis for new strategies to address conditions related to habitual learning, such as addictions and compulsions. The study in mice could also have implications for developing therapeutics for Parkinson's. Wed, 14 May 2025 11:10:59 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250514111059.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250512133656.htm Cancer treatment with a cell-based immunotherapy causes mild cognitive impairment, a Stanford Medicine team found. They also identified compounds that could treat it. Mon, 12 May 2025 13:36:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250512133656.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250508112550.htm How well our brain functions depends heavily on the performance of our nerve cells. That is why they are regularly checked for their proper function -- defective cell components are marked, disposed of and recycled. This includes the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. Impaired quality control of mitochondria plays a central role in Parkinson's disease. Thu, 08 May 2025 11:25:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250508112550.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250507152241.htm Researchers have discovered distinct roles for two dopamine receptors located on nerve cells within the portion of the brain that controls approach vs. avoidance behavior. Wed, 07 May 2025 15:22:41 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250507152241.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250430142245.htm Depression, schizophrenia and other mental health conditions affect 1 in 4 people in their lifetime, but mechanisms underlying these conditions are poorly understood. New research has linked the body's immune response with schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, depression, and bipolar disorder. The study demonstrates mental health conditions might be affected by the whole body as well as changes in the brain. The findings could pave the way for better treatments of some mental health conditions. Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:22:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250430142245.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428220605.htm A new study shows how a dopamine circuit between two brain regions enables mice to extinguish fear after a peril has passed. Mon, 28 Apr 2025 22:06:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250428220605.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250422131544.htm A new study has shown that evidence of genetic susceptibility to schizophrenia can be found in the retina. This finding could help improve the early detection of the disorder. Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:15:44 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250422131544.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250422131213.htm Dopamine is the brain's motivational spark, driving us to chase what feels good, say scrolling another reel on social media, and steer clear of what doesn't, like touching a hot stove. But scientists haven't fully understood how dopamine helps us learn to avoid bad outcomes -- until now. A new study shows that dopamine signals in two key brain areas involved in motivation and learning respond differently to negative experiences, helping the brain adapt based on whether a situation is predictable or controllable. While previous research has shown that dopamine can respond to negative experiences, this is the first study to track how those signals evolve over time as animals move from novices to experts in avoiding them. Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:12:13 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250422131213.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250416135728.htm Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) type 2 is a congenital malformation of the cerebral cortex that is often associated with difficult-to-treat epilepsy. In the affected areas, nerve cells and their layer structures are arranged in an atypical manner, which often makes drug therapy more difficult. A research team has now found evidence of profound changes in the dopamine system in FCD type 2. Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:57:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250416135728.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414162049.htm Researchers have developed a new, neuroplasticity-promoting drug closely related to LSD that harnesses the psychedelic's therapeutic power with reduced hallucinogenic potential. Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:20:49 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414162049.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414124817.htm A research team has identified a previously unknown enzyme, SIRT2, that plays a key role in memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study provides critical insights into how astrocytes contribute to cognitive decline by producing excessive amounts of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:48:17 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250414124817.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250410160714.htm Researchers identified a direct connection between cancer-related inflammation and the loss of motivation characteristic of advanced cancer. In a mouse study, they describe a brain pathway that starts with neurons (labeled in green, above) that sense inflammation signals, and the researchers were able to treat the loss of motivation by blocking this pathway. Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:07:14 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250410160714.htm