Learn about brain health and nootropics to boost brain function
A Scientist Explains How Brains Form Memory—and What Causes Memory Loss
There are so many reasons—normal, non-scary reasons—why we forget things, whether it’s the name of that dog-walking neighbor, or our friend’s birthday, or where we parked our car. Sometimes we’re moving at too fast a pace, multi-tasking all the way. Or maybe our lives…
Reversible Brain Mechanism Explains Memory Loss from Drug Abuse
Summary: Scientists have uncovered a mechanism in the brain that explains how drugs like methamphetamine and PCP impair cognitive functions, particularly memory. The study shows that these drugs trigger neurotransmitter switching in the cerebral cortex, where excitatory glutamate neurons switch to inhibitory GABA neurons,…
A cell biologist is investigating the balance of brain flexibility, stability
Andrea Gomez is fascinated by the brain’s ability to find the balance between stability and flexibility. One of the most remarkable things about the human brain is that it changes. A lot. This ability to reinvent itself, to morph, to strengthen some connections and…
Research suggests neurons protect and preserve certain information through a dedicated zone of stable synapses
A layer 5 pyramidal neuron imaged in vivo with two-photon microscopy. The oblique dendritic domain (pink) contains stable synapses, and the basal dendritic domain (blue) contains plastic synapses. The cell body and part of the dendritic trunk are white. Credit: Courtney Yaeger and Mark…
3 Effective ways to maintain optimal brain performance for people over 60
Tags: aging secrets , alternative medicine , anti-aging , brain health , cognitive function , cognitive health , cognitive stimulation , exercise , fitness , goodhealth , goodmedicine , goodscience , group activities , healing arts , health science , natural health , natural…
Cognitive behavioral therapy enhances brain circuits to relieve depression
Cognitive behavioral therapy, one of the most common treatments for depression, can teach skills for coping with everyday troubles, reinforce healthy behaviors and counter negative thoughts. But can altering thoughts and behaviors lead to lasting changes in the brain? New research led by Stanford…
Kynurenine pathway blockade shows promise for restoring brain metabolism in Alzheimer’s
Among the many ways neuroscientists think Alzheimer’s disease may strip away brain function is by disrupting the glucose metabolism needed to fuel the healthy brain. In essence, declining metabolism robs the brain of energy, impairing thinking and memory. Against that backdrop, a team of…
Low-dose THC reverses brain aging and enhances cognition in mice, research suggests
Abstract. Credit: ACS Pharmacology & Translational Science (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.4c00002, https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsptsci.4c00002 Bonn researchers have clarified the influence of treatment with tetrahydrocannabinol on the metabolic switch mTOR: A low-dose long-term administration of cannabis can not only reverse aging processes in the brain, but also has…
Synaptic Quality Key to Age Related Memory Preservation
Summary: A recent study reveals that the quality, not the quantity, of synapses in the brain is crucial for preserving memory in older adults. Researchers found that larger dendritic spine head diameters in the temporal cortex correlate with better episodic memory performance, challenging the…
Light and Sound Therapy Maintains Myelin in Alzheimer’s
Summary: A new study finds that 40Hz light and sound therapy helps maintain myelin, a crucial brain structure, in Alzheimer’s patients. This therapy, which protects neurons and supports brain function, could offer new treatment avenues for neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers discovered that this stimulation enhances…
Epigenetics Unlocks Secrets of Memory Formation
Summary: A new study reveals that the epigenetic state of neurons determines their role in memory formation. Neurons with open chromatin states are more likely to be recruited into memory traces, showing higher electrical activity during learning. Researchers demonstrated that manipulating these epigenetic states…
Scientist’s MRIs Highlight Psilocybin Boosting Brain Plasticity
NPR reports on fascinating research that shows how taking the psychedelic drug psilocybin changes brain process, producing mind-altering effects and temporary boosts to the brain’s ability to adapt and change. In other research news, CBD may protect skin from the sun. NPR: This Is…
Are These Plant Molecules the Secret to Brain Health?
Key points Polyphenols, found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine, boost brain health and cognitive function. Flavonoids and phenolic acids are key polyphenol groups with diverse health benefits, including brain support. Polyphenols have anti-inflammatory, epigenetic and neuroprotective properties that may enhance brain vitality. Consuming…
Mind Over Matter: Sculpt Your Brain, Transform Your Future
Key points Research suggests that heavy reliance on technology may change brain structure and reduce grey matter density. People can shape their brains through intentional actions to maintain mental agility and resilience. Engaging in mentally stimulating activities with new skills can strengthen cognitive function…
Trying Harder Increases Cognitive Effort and Enhances Memory
Key points To successfully complete a hard task requires more cognitive effort. In visuomotor tasks, more cognitive effort enhances working memory allocation. Enhanced working memory allocation leads to improved recall and memory. “It just got too hard,” says Geena Davis as Dottie Hinson in…
Brain Energy Boost Mechanism Discovered
Summary: Researchers identified a key mechanism that detects when the brain needs an energy boost, involving astrocytes and the molecule adenosine. This discovery could lead to new therapies for maintaining brain health and longevity, particularly in combating cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. The study…
Serotonin 2C Receptor Key to Memory
Summary: Researchers discovered the serotonin 2C receptor in the brain plays a crucial role in regulating memory in both humans and animal models. This breakthrough offers insights into conditions associated with memory loss, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and suggests new treatment pathways. Mutations in…
Sleep is essential for memory formation
Article image Imagine you’re a student preparing for a big exam: do you pull an all-nighter or get some rest? As many students know, lack of sleep makes retaining information difficult. Two new studies led by the University of Michigan (U-M) have recently revealed…
Studies uncover the critical role of sleep in the formation of memories
Science News from research organizations FULL STORY Imagine you’re a student, it’s finals week, and you’re preparing for a big exam: do you pull an all-nighter or do you get some rest? As many a groggy-eyed person who’s stared blankly at a test knows,…
The brain can store nearly 10 times more data than previously thought, study confirms
The amount of information the brain can store is greater than once thought, new research suggests. The brain may be able to hold nearly 10 times more information than previously thought, a new study confirms. Similar to computers, the brain’s memory storage is measured…