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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.

Neurons use RNA fragments to fight back against botox damage

Scientists have discovered that neurons exposed to Botox (botulinum toxin A) don't just survive—they fight back.

18 Jun 2025

Living near microplastic polluted waters linked to higher risk of heart and metabolic diseases

Living in a U.S. coastal county bordered by ocean waters with very high concentrations of microplastics may increase the risk of heart and metabolic diseases, such as Type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease and stroke.

18 Jun 2025

UQ researchers discover new lipid-based pathway essential for memory formation

A new lipid-based pathway essential for memory formation has been discovered by University of Queensland researchers – a breakthrough that could lead to treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

18 Jun 2025

Why doctors say measles isn’t just back, it’s a warning sign for us all

A new editorial outlines the alarming resurgence of measles in the U.S., with over 880 cases reported by April 2025, largely driven by domestic transmission and declining vaccination coverage. The authors warn that without urgent public health action, measles could become endemic again, exposing broader vulnerabilities in vaccine-preventable disease defenses.

17 Jun 2025

Disrupted biological rhythms in teens can produce unexpected brain effects

A new McGill University-led study suggests that disrupting the body's internal clock during adolescence can alter how the brain responds to an in-utero risk factor linked to certain brain disorders.

17 Jun 2025

Living near algal blooms linked to faster ALS progression

Living close to cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms - which are present nationwide but are more common in coastal and Great Lake states - heightens the rate of dying from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, a study suggests.

17 Jun 2025

FDA-approved drug may help restore breathing in obesity-related sleep disorder

Researchers from the George Washington University have uncovered promising evidence in an animal study that shows setmelanotide, an FDA-approved medication for a rare genetic obesity disorder, may offer a pathway for treating a life-threatening form of sleep-disordered breathing called Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome.

17 Jun 2025

New AI algorithm speeds up cancer diagnosis and treatment decisions

Researchers at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a novel algorithm that could provide a revolutionary tool for determining the best options for patients - both in the treatment of cancer and in the prescription of medicines.

17 Jun 2025

Could a diabetes drug be the key to stopping Alzheimer’s?

Investigating tirzepatide's role in Alzheimer's reveals its potential to improve brain function and reduce inflammation, linking diabetes and neurodegeneration.

17 Jun 2025

Healthy glial cell transplants slow Huntington’s disease progression

Huntington's disease has long defied attempts to rescue suffering neurons. A new study in Cell Reports shows that transplanting healthy human glial progenitor cells into the brains of adult animal models of the disease not only slowed motor and cognitive decline but also extended lifespan.

17 Jun 2025

Popular painkiller use linked to gut microbiome shifts

Estrogen-responsive cells found to heighten gut pain in females

Researchers uncovered how estrogen heightens gut sensitivity in females by activating PYY-secreting L-cells, which stimulate serotonin release from EC cells. This paracrine circuit intensifies pain signaling and may explain the sex bias in conditions like IBS.

16 Jun 2025

Mitochondrial dysfunction drives cerebellar damage in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects an estimated 2.3 million people worldwide. Approximately 80% of people with MS have inflammation in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that helps control movement and balance, potentially leading to tremors, poor coordination, and trouble with motor control.

16 Jun 2025

Study links gestational hypertension to increased seizure risk in offspring

A new study led by researchers at University of Iowa Health Care has revealed a significant association between high blood pressure during pregnancy (gestational hypertension) and an increased risk of seizures in children.

16 Jun 2025

Machine learning identifies key lifestyle factors for healthy brain function

A new study offers insight into the health and lifestyle indicators - including diet, physical activity and weight - that align most closely with healthy brain function across the lifespan.

16 Jun 2025

Two existing medications work effectively together in treating alcohol use disorder

Two existing medications - one used for smoking cessation and the other for depression - appear to work effectively together in treating alcohol use disorder.

16 Jun 2025

Indiana University researcher helps develop FDA-approved Alzheimer’s test

A first-of-its-kind blood test to detect amyloid plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease recently received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. An Indiana University School of Medicine researcher who helped lead the discovery and development of one of the biomarkers the test identifies hopes it will provide greater access and a more accurate diagnosis for patients.

16 Jun 2025