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 …
New research reveals that increased inflammation, indicated by higher levels of a protein called VCAM-1, is associated with decreased gray matter and altered brain connectivity in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). These brain changes also correlate with VCAM-1 levels. Key Facts: MDD patients had higher blood VCAM-1 levels than healthy controls Higher VCAM-1 related …
Human intelligence is a complex cognitive trait that has fascinated scientists and philosophers for centuries. New research is shedding light on the neurobiological underpinnings of intelligence, from genes to cells to brain networks. Key Facts: Intelligence is one of the most heritable human behavioral traits, with genetics explaining 50-80% of variability between individuals. Over 1000 …
Narcissism is characterized by self-importance, entitlement, and interpersonal difficulties. Neuroscience research has begun to uncover the complex mechanisms underlying the paradoxical patterns of narcissistic functioning. Key findings show: Narcissism involves heightened vigilance and stress reactivity to ego threats despite outward grandiosity Alterations in brain regions involved in self-vs-other processing may underlie narcissistic self-focus and empathy …
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior. While antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms, their long-term effects on brain structure are not fully understood. A new study provides important insights into how long-term antipsychotic treatment may impact gray matter in chronic schizophrenia. Key Facts: Both treated and untreated …
Cocaine use can lead to significant structural changes and accelerated aging of the brain, according to a new study. Key findings include: Cocaine users showed widespread gray matter loss in areas involved in emotions, language, cognition and decision-making. Cocaine users had “older” looking brains, with brain-predicted age 2.5 years higher than their real age. Brain …
