Major depressive disorder affects over 280 million people worldwide. While the causes are complex, new research is uncovering the role epigenetics plays in depression. Epigenetic changes can regulate how genes are expressed without altering the DNA sequence itself. These changes may explain why some people are more susceptible to depression and highlight new avenues for …
Obesity has been linked to faster brain aging, but can losing weight turn back the clock? A new study provides compelling evidence that shedding pounds through lifestyle changes may attenuate brain aging. Key facts: Participants lost an average of 5% of body weight after 18 months of diet and exercise Just 1% weight loss corresponded …
A new brain imaging study provides insight into how antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may bring about symptom improvement in adolescents with major depressive disorder. The findings suggest that changes in a brain region involved in cognitive control may serve as markers of treatment response. Key Facts: Researchers used MRI scans to examine …
A new study reveals that widely prescribed antidepressants may cause persistent erectile dysfunction in a small but significant number of male patients. Key Facts: The study found that serotonergic antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs triple the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) compared to non-users. After stopping the antidepressants, 0.46% of patients (1 out of every …
A new study provides the first evidence that reversing biological brain age in humans is possible within a practical timeframe of around one year. The research demonstrated that an individually tailored regimen of nutraceutical supplements significantly reduced brain age, while lifestyle changes were only able to slow down aging. This offers hope that accessible interventions …
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects social interaction and communication. A new brain imaging study provides insights into how disruptions in the brain’s social networks may relate to core autism symptoms. The research identifies specific brain regions and circuits that differ in children with ASD compared to typically developing peers. Key Facts: Children with ASD showed …
Researchers have found signs of ongoing inflammation in the brains of athletes still experiencing concussion symptoms months or years after their injury, according to a new study published in Journal of Neuroinflammation. The findings suggest the concussion triggered chronic neuroinflammation that may be contributing to their persistent symptoms. Key Facts: The study examined athletes who …
Researchers have for the first time reconstructed all neurons and their connections in the brain of a fruit fly larva, revealing fundamental principles of brain organization. The study provides an important scaffold for understanding the neural basis of behavior in this model organism. Key Facts: The larval Drosophila brain contains around 3000 neurons. The full …
Cannabis legalization is spreading, but what does it mean for public health? A new review summarizes the research on the impacts of legalizing recreational cannabis use. Key Facts: Recreational cannabis is now legal nationally in Canada, Uruguay, and Malta. 18 U.S. states plus D.C. have also legalized recreational use. Research finds mixed evidence for effects …
Summary: A new study reveals how certain genes and education levels impact Alzheimer’s disease risk, even in individuals destined to develop dementia. Key facts: The APOE gene influences Alzheimer’s onset in people with a genetic mutation causing early-onset Alzheimer’s. Having APOE e4 accelerates onset of decline while APOE e2 delays it. More years of education …
