Issues in Science and Technology’s Post

Exciting advancements in neuroscience research reveal critical insights into neurological disease disparities among Black Americans. A groundbreaking study published in Nature Neuroscience sheds light on the factors contributing to higher rates of Alzheimer's, stroke, and mental health conditions in this community. The research, part of the African Ancestry Neuroscience Research Initiative, focused on a database of tissues from over 100 Black donors from Baltimore. Key findings highlight the role of genetics and environmental factors, such as pollution and water quality, in these disparities. Importantly, the study emphasizes that these findings should not be misconstrued to support a biological basis for race but rather underscore how lived experiences influence gene expression. This study underscores the importance of diverse representation in genetic databases to fully understand and address health disparities.#NeuroscienceResearch #HealthDisparities #DiversityInResearch

🧬 New Insights into Autism’s Gender Disparity Exciting research from the IIT team in Rovereto, led by Alessandro Gozzi, in collaboration with the Universities of Trento and Pisa, has shed light on why autism is more prevalent in males. Published in "Science Advances," the study reveals a biological mechanism linked to the overexpression of the gene Ube3a in the presence of male sexual hormones, triggering a cascade of genetic dysregulation associated with autism. This discovery could pave the way for targeted therapies and deepen our understanding of autism's biological underpinnings. It highlights the critical role of genetic and hormonal interactions in the development of autism and raises important questions about gender-specific factors in neurological disorders. As we continue to unravel the complexities of autism, such insights are invaluable in directing future research and treatment strategies. What implications do you think this finding could have on our approach to autism diagnosis and therapy? #AutismResearch #GeneticResearch #Neuroscience #HealthcareInnovation > https://lnkd.in/gRpzaVYB

Fascinating research is emerging on the connections between genetics, brain volume, and conditions like Parkinson’s and ADHD. An international study recently identified new genetic variants that influence the size of subcortical brain structures, which could offer insights into both neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions. Lead researcher Dr. Miguel Rentería shared with Medical News Today, “My team works at the intersection of human genetics and neuroscience, with a focus on how genetic variation shapes individual differences in behaviour, cognition, and mental health.” “Past research, including from twin studies and ENIGMA collaborators, has shown that brain morphology is moderately heritable and linked to brain-related conditions. Our goal was to map the genetic variants that influence brain structure and examine if these same genes also affect the risk of brain-related disorders,” Rentería noted. Key findings suggest that certain genes tied to brain volume are positively correlated with Parkinson’s risk and negatively correlated with ADHD. These discoveries point to the complex genetic and structural factors that may underlie these conditions, emphasizing that brain health is influenced by a blend of genetic predispositions and environmental interactions. Polygenic scores are also proving useful in predicting brain volume across diverse populations, with this study’s results showing consistency across ancestries. While limitations still exist such as the impact of rare genetic variants and environmental factors—this approach provides a potential path forward in understanding and perhaps one day managing brain-related conditions more effectively. #MentalHealth #Genetics #Neuroscience #ParkinsonsDisease #ADHD #BrainHealth #PolygenicScores #Neurodevelopment #Research https://lnkd.in/e9ezShPe

A new series of open access articles and opinion pieces from The Hastings Center addresses the ethical, legal, and societal issues presented by emerging neuroscience. In its first edition, writers focus on what is owed to people who volunteer in clinical trials to develop implantable brain devices, such as deep-brain stimulators and brain-computer interfaces. Funded through our Dana NextGen program, this series aims to foster dynamic, sustained conversation among neuroscience researchers, legal and ethics scholars, policymakers, and wider publics. #neuroethics #neurosociety #neuroscience #neurolaw #brainresearch #healthcare

🧠The Genetics of Emotion and Behavior As a bioscience enthusiast, I find it fascinating how the field of genetics continues to deepen our understanding of human behavior and emotions. A recent study highlighted in Neuroscience News explores the genetic underpinnings of emotional and behavioral traits, revealing how these intricate interactions shape our individual personalities. The research emphasizes that our genes, alongside environmental influences, play a significant role in determining emotional responses and behavioral tendencies. Such discoveries are paving the way for personalized approaches in mental health treatments and fostering a deeper appreciation of human diversity. This intersection of genetics and psychology not only has profound implications for scientific research but also offers practical insights into how we understand and address mental health challenges. 🔬 **Key Takeaway**: Understanding the genetic factors behind emotions and behavior allows us to advance treatments, combat stigma, and foster empathy. 📚 Check out the article here for more insights [The Genetics of Emotion and Behavior] https://lnkd.in/g9PyN4Xd Let’s continue exploring the endless potential of biosciences to make impactful contributions to society! 🚀 #Genetics #Neuroscience #MentalHealth #Biosciences #BehavioralScience

Follow the link below to read a new article from me and colleagues on post-trial obligations for experimental deep brain stimulation trials.

⬛ NeuroBiography (The biographies of neuroscientists)-Alvaro Pascual-Leone's Knowing the biography of neuroscientists can help in better understanding their lives and careers. Their biographies may include details about their early life, education, career experiences, notable scientific contributions, and their impact on their scientific field. This information can aid in a better understanding of their research interests and achievements, and can also serve as inspiration for others interested in or working in the fields of neuroscience and psychology. Alvaro Pascual-Leone is a Professor of Neurology and Director of the Berenson-Allen Center for Noninvasive Brain Stimulation at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, where he also serves as Program Director of the Harvard-Thorndike Clinical Research Center. Alvaro Pascual-Leone's research has yielded significant insights into brain plasticity and the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to modulate cortical excitability. #TMS #TMSAdvantages #rtms #magventure #neurointelligence #tmstherapy #mdd #depress #psychology #psychiatry #neuroscience #biography

New regulator discovered for information transfer in the brain Neuron with synaptic contacts. The protein mSYD1 has a key function in transmitting information between neurons. This was recently discovered by the research group. Synapses are the most important sites of information transfer between neurons. The functioning of our brain is based on the ability of the synapses to release neurotransmitter substances in a fraction of a second, so that neuronal signals can be rapidly propagated and integrated.team has now identified a new mechanism, which ensures that synaptic vesicles, the carrier of the transmitter substances, are concentrated at their designated place, thereby contributing to rapid signal transmission. mSYD1 as organizer of synaptic structures The speed and precision of synaptic transmission is based on a highly complex protein apparatus in the synapse. A concentration of synaptic vesicles is found at the synaptic contact sites between neurons. When a nerve cell is activated, vesicles fuse with the edge of the synapse, the so-called active zone, and send neurotransmitters to the neighboring cells. Identified a previously unknown protein called mSYD1, which regulates the deposition of the vesicles at the active zone. In nerve cells, in which no mSYD1 protein is present, synaptic contacts continue to be formed but the accumulation of the synaptic vesicles at the active zone is disrupted. This results in a significant reduction of synaptic transmission. Inactive mSYD1 in autistic disorders These findings provide important new insights into the mechanisms underlying the formation of functional neuronal networks. In patients with a developmental disorder belonging the autism spectrum, mSYD1 is one of a group of genes that are inactivated. In further investigations, the research group is now looking at how the inactivation of mSYD1 affects the behavior of mice, in order to gain insights into the fundamental neuronal defects associated with autism. #neuroscience #information #transfer #brain #Neuron #autism #mSYD1 #protein Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience Neuroscience News Neuroscience R&D Technologies Conference AHN Neuroscience Institute AHN Neuroscience Institute

Suicide prevention breakthrough: A new study reveals molecular markers in suicide cases, opening doors to innovative treatments and prevention strategies. Understanding the biology of suicidal behavior is crucial for timely intervention. #suicideprevention #neuroscience

Neuroscience Tuesday   "Summary: Researchers have developed a system that detects genetic markers of autism in brain images with 89-95% accuracy, potentially enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment. This method, which identifies brain structure patterns linked to autism-related genetic variations, offers a personalized approach to autism care. The technique, called transport-based morphometry, could transform the understanding and treatment of autism by focusing on genetic markers rather than behavioral cues.   Key Facts:   - The system uses brain imaging to spot autism-related genetic variations. - Accuracy of the method ranges from 89-95%, promising earlier diagnosis. - This approach could shift autism diagnosis from behavior-based to genetics-based.   Source: University of Virginia"   https://bit.ly/3AWSAc4   #brain #brainresearch #ASD #AUTISM #neuroscience #neurosciences #neurociencia