BrainASAP

Levels of BDNF, Triglycerides, Total Cholesterol May Predict Suicidal Ideation in First-Episode Schizophrenia (2024 Study)

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The study found that higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and better cognitive function reduce suicidal thoughts in first-episode schizophrenia patients, while more severe symptoms and higher total cholesterol levels increase the risk. Highlights: Suicidal Ideation Rate: 26.02% of first-episode schizophrenia patients had suicidal thoughts. Risk Factors: Higher total cholesterol (TC) levels and more …

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Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) of Nucleus Accumbens Treats Cocaine Addiction in Male Rats But Not Females (2024 Study)

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Deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the nucleus accumbens reduces cocaine seeking in male rats but is ineffective in female rats, regardless of their estrous cycle phase. Highlights: No FDA-Approved Treatments: There are currently no FDA-approved treatments for cocaine use disorder. DBS Reduces Cocaine Seeking in Males: Previous studies and the current experiment show that DBS …

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Polygenic Scores May Improve Accuracy of ADHD Diagnosis when Combined with Standard Diagnostic Scales (2024 Study)

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The ADHD polygenic score (PGS) adds slight yet statistically significant value to existing ADHD diagnostic tools, though it currently lacks clinical utility. Highlights: Study Overview: Researchers tested if adding a genetic score (ADHD PGS) to traditional diagnostic tools (ASRS and WURS scales) and family history could better predict ADHD. Improvement in Diagnosis: Adding the ADHD …

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Micro & Long Non-Coding RNAs in Blood Samples May Accurately Diagnose Depression & Monitor Treatment Responses (2024 Study)

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The study suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in blood and brain tissues can serve as significant biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring major depressive disorder (MDD). Highlights: Diagnostic Potential: miRNAs and lncRNAs show significant variations in depressed patients, indicating their potential as diagnostic biomarkers for MDD. Treatment Monitoring: Changes in miRNA levels …

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Autism Genetics & Immune Cell Activity: Causal Biomarkers Identified (2024 Study)

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A study reported significant causal relationships between specific immune cell subtypes and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), highlighting 26 genetic correlations and potential biomarkers for early detection and treatment. Highlights: Significant Genetic Correlations: The study identifies 26 potential correlations between genetic predispositions in immune cell types (immunophenotypes) and the risk of developing ASD. Bi-Directional Analysis Results: …

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TMS is Effective But Underutilized for Major Depression vs. Standard of Care (2024 Study)

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Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is underutilized in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) despite showing significant clinical benefits, with barriers including insurance coverage and limited access. Highlights: Study Scope: Analyzed real-world data from a large, multi-site psychiatric practice to evaluate TMS utilization and outcomes compared to usual care (UC) for patients with MDD. Patient Cohorts: Among …

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Age-Related Brain Volume Changes in Men & Women (2024 MRI Study)

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Normal aging leads to a decrease in brain volume, with gray and white matter shrinking and cerebrospinal fluid increasing, as measured by synthetic MRI. Highlights: Study Sample: 300 healthy adults (141 males, median age 48; 159 females, median age 50) were analyzed using synthetic MRI. Brain Volume Trends: Brain parenchymal volume (nBPV) decreases steadily with …

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Genetics of Depression Linked to Gut Microbiome Abnormalities (2024 Study)

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Alterations in the gut microbiome are causally linked to major depressive disorder (MDD), with certain gut bacteria either increasing or decreasing the risk of developing MDD. Highlights: Protective Bacteria: Ten gut bacterial taxa, including phylum Actinobacteria and family Bifidobacteriaceae, were found to be protective against MDD. Risk Factors: Ten other taxa, such as phyla Firmicutes …

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Autism Linked to High Leptin & Low Progranulin in Children (2024 Meta-Analysis)

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Leptin levels are significantly increased in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to healthy controls, suggesting a potential role in ASD pathology. Highlights: Leptin Levels: Children with ASD have significantly higher serum leptin levels compared to healthy controls, as confirmed by both individual study results (p=0.0319) and meta-analysis (p<0.001). Progranulin Reduction: In addition to …

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