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Neural Basis

All articles tagged with #neural basis

neuroscience2 years ago•19 min saved

Unveiling the Neural Mechanisms of Survival during Fasting

Researchers have identified the neural basis for the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during fasting. Using fibre photometry, they observed increased activity in AgRP neurons in the hypothalamus, which led to the release of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This activation of AgRP neurons was found to be independent of feeding behavior and was mediated by the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R). The study provides insights into the neuroendocrine response to fasting and sheds light on the regulation of the HPA axis. Data and code availability are provided for further research.

via Nature.com|

#code-availability #fasting #fibre-photometry-data

neuroscience2 years ago•4 min saved

Reevaluating the Mechanism of Antipsychotic Medications

A groundbreaking study challenges the conventional belief about the action of antipsychotic medications in treating schizophrenia. Contrary to previous assumptions, the study reveals that these drugs primarily interact with neurons expressing D1 dopamine receptors, rather than D2 receptors. This unexpected finding opens new avenues for drug development and may lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects. Current antipsychotic drugs are ineffective for a significant portion of patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia, highlighting the urgent need for improved therapies.

via Neuroscience News|

#antipsychotic-drugs #dopamine #drug-development

neuroscience2 years ago•4 min saved

Unveiling the Neural Roots of Cocaine Addiction

New research has identified that the initial sensitivity of neurons in the nucleus accumbens shell, a brain region, to cocaine can predict future increases in cocaine intake. These individual differences in neuronal sensitivity may have implications for understanding addiction susceptibility and developing personalized treatments or preventive measures. The study used rats as animal models and found that firing patterns of neurons in the nucleus accumbens became increasingly correlated with drug levels during self-administration sessions. The study provides insights into the neural mechanisms underlying individual differences in drug susceptibility and highlights the potential role of the nucleus accumbens in drug reinforcement and addiction.

via PsyPost|

#addiction-prevention #cocaine-addiction #drug-susceptibility