The fascinating brain talk that triggers a wet dog to ‘shake it off’

Ever been caught in the crossfire of a wet dog firing droplets of water away from their fur with a mad shake? Well, they can’t help it. Scientists have discovered the underlying mechanism that drives dogs – and many other hairy mammals – to vigorously … Continue reading The fascinating brain talk that triggers a wet dog to ‘shake it off’

ADHD and Parkinson’s disease linked to gene-driven brain volume

Weighing in: Brain volume in specific regions may increase the risk of neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions

Spanning nearly 100 laboratories in 45 countries, landmark research has, for the first time, shown an association between genetic brain size and neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). And while it doesn’t prove causation, it’s a big step forward in being able to assess risk factors and provide early intervention.

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Category: Mental Health, Brain Health, Body & Mind

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Genetically tailored diets an effective treatment for IBS

Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome, IBS, often includes restricting certain foods, such as carbohydrates, but that doesn’t work for everyone. A new study has found that there might be a genetic reason for this, opening the door to personalized, gen… Continue reading Genetically tailored diets an effective treatment for IBS

Gut microbiome disruptions in infancy increase aggression later in life

Gut bacteria that have been disrupted in infancy can lead to greater aggression later in life, including causing changes to aggression-related genes, according to a new study. The findings warrant more research into the complex interplay between the gu… Continue reading Gut microbiome disruptions in infancy increase aggression later in life

Muscular dystrophy-reversing gene therapy: Human trials in 2 years

A new gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has shown promise in not only slowing the progression of the disease but potentially even reversing the muscle damage, with human trials set to begin within two years.Continue ReadingCategory: Me… Continue reading Muscular dystrophy-reversing gene therapy: Human trials in 2 years

Freeze-dried mammoth reveals most complete ancient genome in 3D

Scientists have assembled the most complete 3D reconstruction of the woolly mammoth genome, thanks to an incredibly well-preserved specimen that was “freeze-dried” straight after death. With its DNA preserved in a glass-like state, fossilized chromosom… Continue reading Freeze-dried mammoth reveals most complete ancient genome in 3D

In a world first, blue frog defies nature with “once-in-a-lifetime” look

An amphibian has lived up to its name, swapping out its usual green coloring for bright blue, in the first-ever record of a magnificent tree frog with this appearance. It’s stunned scientists, who know they’re unlikely to see this again.Continue Readin… Continue reading In a world first, blue frog defies nature with “once-in-a-lifetime” look

Anti-aging molecule successfully restores multiple markers of youth

In pre-clinical trials, a small molecule effectively regrew neurons, reduced inflammation, and improved memory, speed, coordination, grip strength, and more. The finding could have a profound impact on aging and the diseases that accompany it.Continue … Continue reading Anti-aging molecule successfully restores multiple markers of youth

Autism added to growing list of things we’ve inherited from Neanderthals

We know that present-day European and Asian-derived humans have inherited between 1.5% and 4% of Neanderthal DNA, but how does that seemingly small amount of ancient genetic material impact modern physical and mental health?Continue ReadingCategory: Sc… Continue reading Autism added to growing list of things we’ve inherited from Neanderthals