ScienceScience DailyScientists discover a hidden messaging system deep inside the brain
Scientists have found the brain's norepinephrine system sends targeted signals to specific regions rather than broadcasting one general message, which could change how depression and ADHD are treated.
A tiny region deep within the brain has surprised scientists by revealing a remarkably sophisticated communication system. Previously thought to broadcast the same chemical signal throughout the brain, this region actually sends targeted messages that help control learning, attention, and behavior, according to new research in mice.
Researchers at the Allen Institute published a study in Nature showing a small brain region called the locus coeruleus uses several distinct communication pathways, not one broad signal.
The study found upper LC neurons connect mainly to the cortex and forebrain, while lower neurons signal to the brainstem and spinal cord, creating a targeted postal-style network.
The researchers say a clearer map of these pathways could help develop more precise treatments for depression, anxiety, ADHD and potentially Alzheimer's disease.
The study found LC neurons are among the first to deteriorate in Alzheimer's disease, so this research may eventually lead to more targeted treatments for depression, anxiety, ADHD and Alzheimer's.
Five minutes for you
More from Cuppa
Trump administration sues to block certification of Alaska electionThe Trump administration has sued to block Alaska certifying its Senate election result if Republican Dan Sullivan loses, claiming a second candidate with the same name could confuse voters.
Jack Lowden, Margaret Qualley Top Odds for Next Bond and Bond GirlScreen tests for the next James Bond are underway, with British actor Jack Lowden the bookmakers' favourite at a 62 per cent implied chance of landing the role.
Magnetic Field Reversals and Extinctions: The Correlation Won't Go Away.New research suggests a period of geomagnetic chaos in Earth's ancient past may be linked to a mass extinction event, though scientists say the connection is still not proven.
Greener maternity care starts with changing hospitals, without putting pressure on pregnant womenA new report finds maternity care has a surprisingly large carbon footprint, with gas and air pain relief alone making up nearly a third of emissions, but experts say the burden of change should…
Ryan Gosling teases new music with band Dead Man's BonesRyan Gosling's spooky folk-rock band Dead Man's Bones is releasing new music on October 27, their first in 17 years.
Renowned Irish musician Dónal Lunny dies aged 79Dónal Lunny, the Irish musician credited with reviving traditional Irish music through bands like Planxty and The Bothy Band, has died aged 79.
“It stood 3m tall and was armed with some of the deadliest weaponry of any prehistoric animal.” 10 biggest prehistoric birds that ever livedA rundown of the ten biggest birds to ever walk the earth includes a 3-metre-tall vegetarian from Madagascar and an Australian giant nicknamed the Demon Duck.
Extended Letrozole Sustains DFS Benefit at 15 Years in HR+ Breast CancerA major 15-year trial found that postmenopausal women with HR-positive breast cancer who took letrozole for an extra five years had better survival odds.