OPRM1 Gene Polymorphisms of A118G SNP Predict Opioid Effects

This study found that individuals with the AG/GG genotype of the A118G SNP in the OPRM1 gene experienced more pleasant and fewer unpleasant effects from hydromorphone compared to those with the AA genotype, suggesting genotype-based differences in opioid sensitivity. Highlights: Positive Effects: Participants with the AG/GG genotype reported significantly more positive effects (e.g., good effects, …

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Cannabis (Marijuana) Addiction Linked to Altered Brain Connectivity (2024 Study)

Individuals at risk for cannabis use disorder (CUD) exhibit increased dynamic fluidity and altered connectivity patterns in brain networks, suggesting early changes in brain function that may contribute to cannabis addiction risk. Highlights: At-risk individuals for cannabis addiction show a greater number of meta-states and more frequent transitions between them, indicating higher dynamic fluidity in …

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Probiotics Alter Clock Gene Expression in Depression to Improve Mood (2024 Study)

Probiotic treatment may influence core clock gene expression and metabolites in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD), potentially linking gut microbiota to circadian rhythms and mood regulation. Highlights: CLOCK Gene Expression: The expression level of the CLOCK gene significantly increased only in individuals receiving probiotic treatment, suggesting a direct impact of probiotics on circadian rhythms. …

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Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Souvenaid® May Slow Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer’s Disease (2024 Review)

Omega-3 supplements and Souvenaid® show potential in slowing cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients, though the evidence remains inconclusive. Highlights: Cognitive Decline Reduction: The CDR scale showed a significant reduction in cognitive decline progression with Omega-3 supplementation (SMD = −0.4127, 95% CI: [−0.5926; −0.2327]). Mixed Cognitive Outcomes: 58% of studies reported positive cognitive effects from Omega-3 …

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Guanfacine Reverses Cognitive Impairment in Long COVID (2024 Case Report)

Guanfacine extended release (GXR) may effectively improve cognitive impairments and brain activity in long-COVID patients. Highlights: Patient Presentation: A 32-year-old woman experienced cognitive impairments such as difficulty in word recall, reading, and writing, and delayed task completion following COVID-19 infection. Baseline Assessment: Initial tests showed poor performance in attention, working memory, and executive function, with …

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Antidepressant Efficacy vs. CYP2C19 & CYP2D6 Metabolism Genetics (2024 Review)

CYP2C19 poor metabolizers showed a nominally higher antidepressant remission rate compared to normal metabolizers, but overall genetic variations in CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 were not significantly associated with antidepressant response. Highlights: Higher Remission Rate: CYP2C19 poor metabolizers had a nominally higher remission rate (OR = 1.46) compared to normal metabolizers, but this did not hold after …

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LIT-001 (Oxytocin Receptor Agonist) Alters Pair Bonding in Prairie Voles (2024 Study)

A small-molecule oxytocin receptor-specific agonist, LIT-001, differentially affects the acquisition and expression of partner preference in prairie voles, enhancing bonding when administered before cohabitation but inhibiting it when given afterward. Highlights: LIT-001 Enhances Bonding Pre-Cohabitation: Administration of LIT-001 (10 mg/kg) before a 4-hour cohabitation period facilitated the acquisition of partner preference in male prairie voles. …

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Necrostatin-1: A Necroptosis Inhibitor to Treat Neurological Disorders (2024 Research)

Necrostatin-1, an inhibitor of necroptosis, exhibits significant neuroprotective effects and potential therapeutic applications in various neurological disorders by modulating cell death pathways, inflammation, and reactive oxygen species. Highlights: Mechanism of Action: Necrostatin-1 specifically inhibits receptor-interacting protein 1 (RIP1), preventing necroptosis and other cell death pathways, including apoptosis and ferroptosis. Neuroprotective Role: It shows promise in …

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Nanoparticle Enhanced Radiotherapy (NERT) for Brain Tumor Treatment (2024 Research)

Nanoparticle-enhanced radiotherapy (NERT) is a promising approach to improving brain tumor treatment by enhancing radiotherapy efficacy through targeted delivery and radiosensitization while overcoming challenges posed by the blood-brain barrier. Highlights: Mechanisms of Action: NERT utilizes nanoparticles (NPs) as radiosensitizers, enhancing radiation-induced damage through physical dose enhancement and biological/chemical sensitization. Types of Nanoparticles: Various NP types, …

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Cocaine Addiction Linked to Brain Shrinkage & Grey Matter Deficits (2024 Study)

Cocaine Use Disorder (CUD) patients exhibit widespread gray matter atrophy, with specific brain volume deficits associated with crack-cocaine use and relapse outcomes. Highlights: Widespread Gray Matter Atrophy: CUD patients show significant gray matter volume reductions in frontal and temporal cortices, cerebellum, and subcortical structures compared to healthy controls. Route of Use: Crack-cocaine use is linked …

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