Search

A recent study explored the genetic links between insulin resistance-related metabolic conditions (such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome) and neuropsychiatric disorders (such as Alzheimer's disease, bipolar disorder, and Tourette's syndrome). The researchers used large-scale genome-wide association studies to identify 109 unique genomic regions that showed patterns of negative and positive local genetic correlations between these conditions. Genes in these regions were found to be involved in immune-inflammatory function, vesicle trafficking, insulin signaling, oxygen transport, and lipid metabolism. The study suggests that there is a complex genetic landscape underlying the co-occurrence of these conditions and highlights the potential for integrated disease models and novel treatment strategies. However, it is important to note that this study has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine focuses on the pathogenesis of schizophrenia using a mouse model. The researchers used genome editing technology to create 3q29 deletion mice and analyzed their behavior, as well as their activity and body temperature using a miniature acceleration sensor. The study found that the model mice exhibited similar phenotypes to those observed in mouse models of schizophrenia, making them a promising animal model for the disorder. The research suggests that further analysis may provide insights into treating sleep disorders associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Taiyuan University of Technology in China have developed a new method called Beta-Informativeness-Diffusion Multilayer Graph Embedding (BID-MGE) for brain network analysis in the field of neuropsychiatry. The method integrates multiple neuroimaging modalities, such as structural and functional connectivity, to provide more comprehensive information for diagnosing neuropsychiatric disorders. The researchers found that their method effectively identifies crucial brain regions associated with diseases and outperforms other advanced methods in classification performance. This study provides valuable insights into the pathology of neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the sexual dimorphism in the distribution and density of regulatory interneurons in the striatum, which is the primary input nucleus of the cortico-basal circuitry. This dysfunction in the circuitry has been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism and Tourette Syndrome (TS). The study found that males have a higher density of cholinergic interneurons (CINs) and parvalbumin-expressing GABAergic fast spiking interneurons (FSIs) in the dorsal striatum compared to females. These differences in interneuron density and distribution may contribute to the sexual dimorphism observed in TS and autism spectrum disorder. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A new study conducted by researchers at the First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College in China has explored the dynamic functional connective (DFC) alterations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and their correlation with neuropsychiatric symptoms and peripheral inflammation. The study used resting-state functional MRI to investigate the DFC in 30 patients with RA and 30 healthy controls. The findings revealed abnormal DFC patterns in sensory processing networks in patients with RA, which were closely associated with peripheral inflammation and neuropsychiatric symptoms. These findings suggest that the dynamic temporal characteristics of the brain functional network could serve as potential neuroimaging biomarkers for understanding the pathological mechanism of RA. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) in California has developed a new procedure for selecting targets for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in patients with dystonia. The procedure, called Stereotactic Awake Basal ganglia Electrophysiological Recording and Stimulation (SABERS), involves the use of temporary depth electrodes to assess neurophysiological responses and tailor neuromodulation to each patient's specific needs. The study included 30 children and young adults with various forms of dystonia, and the results showed significant improvement in motor function after DBS implantation. The researchers concluded that this new technique could expand functional neurosurgery to a wider range of brain disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to the University of California for a method of neural intervention to treat affective neuropsychiatric disorders. The patent describes a method involving the stimulation of specific regions of the brain, such as the orbitofrontal cortex, to treat disorders such as depression, anxiety, addiction, anorexia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain. The method utilizes electrodes placed on the surface or within the brain to deliver electrical stimulation. This method aims to provide more effective treatment options for individuals suffering from these disorders, as current treatments often prove inadequate. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study that aims to understand the molecular organization of the human habenula (Hb) and how it is altered in individuals with schizophrenia. The study utilized postmortem human brain tissue and conducted various experiments to identify molecularly defined cell types in the Hb and investigate transcriptomic changes associated with schizophrenia. The results identified distinct cell types in the Hb with unique molecular signatures and revealed transcriptomic changes in the epithalamus associated with schizophrenia. This research provides molecular insights into the role of the Hb in neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study used long-read sequencing to examine the RNA isoform repertoire of neuropsychiatric risk genes in the human brain. The researchers found that these risk genes are more complex than previously thought, identifying 440 novel isoforms and 28 novel exons. They also discovered isoforms that alter protein domains and uncovered previously undiscovered isoforms in genes such as ATG13 and GATAD2A. The study highlights the presence of previously undetected RNA and protein isoforms in the brain and provides a new approach to understanding the functional impact of these isoforms on neuropsychiatric disorders. However, it is important to note that this research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Champalimaud Foundation in Lisbon, Portugal discusses research findings on Neuropsychiatry. The study focuses on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a potential biomarker for neuropsychiatric disorders. The researchers explored the impact of normalization on the variability of Motor Evoked Potential (MEP) amplitude, which is measured through TMS. They found that internal reference normalization significantly reduced between-subject variability, while external reference normalization had no impact or increased variability. Further research is needed to validate these normalization methods for potential use as biomarkers of neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research on neuropsychiatry, specifically focusing on the role of lactate and pH in major mental diseases such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and autism. The study suggests that lactate-mediated pH alterations in the brain may be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and changes in energy metabolism. The researchers highlight the importance of pH homeostasis in normal brain function and propose lactate-based and pH-modulating therapies as potential approaches for treating neuropsychiatric diseases. However, they also acknowledge the challenges of translating these therapies into clinical practice. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosing neuropsychiatric disorders. The research highlights the impact of these disorders on individuals' lives and the potential for AI, specifically natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision, to aid in understanding and diagnosing these conditions. The report provides a survey of linguistic markers specific to various neuropsychiatric disorders and symptoms, along with an analysis of previous work and suggestions for future research. The research was conducted by Ioana-Raluca Zaman and Stefan Trausan-Matu from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Politehnica Bucharest, National University for Science and Technology in Romania. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Johns Hopkins University has provided new insights into the relationship between olfactory deficits and neuropsychiatric disorders. The research highlights the importance of understanding the role of the olfactory system in these disorders and suggests that further investigation could lead to early detection, personalized treatment approaches, and potential therapeutic interventions. The study discusses various areas of research, including clinical studies, molecular mechanisms, brain imaging, and animal models. The findings suggest that nasal administration techniques, such as nasal brush or nasal spray, could be used for potential interventions. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of California explores the genetic risk associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, specifically focusing on the 22q11.2 microdeletion. The study investigates the role of thalamic dysfunction in the emergence of abnormalities related to this genetic risk. Using human pluripotent stem cell-derived organoids, the researchers found widespread transcriptional dysregulation in thalamic neurons and glia, including elevated expression of FOXP2. The study suggests that early stages of thalamic development are dysregulated in individuals with the 22q11.2 microdeletion, contributing to neural phenotypes in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington explores the genetic architecture of complex neuropsychiatric diseases from an evolutionary perspective. The study emphasizes the importance of studying diverse populations with different genetic ancestries, historical demography, and cultural histories to gain insight into the genetic causes of these diseases. By understanding the genetic basis of neuropsychiatric diseases in a wide range of human populations, researchers can uncover critical genes involved in human brain development. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the journal Neuron. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Capital Medical University in Beijing, China, explored the potential causal relationship between plasma ferritin levels and neuropsychiatric disorders. Using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study, the researchers found a statistically significant causal link between plasma ferritin levels and the occurrence of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. However, no evidence was found to support a causal association between ferritin and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, schizophrenia, or major depressive disorder. Further investigation is needed to understand the exact genetic mechanisms underlying this connection. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for systems and methods for whole-brain circuit-based neurostimulation to treat brain disorders. The patent describes the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic field pulses to stimulate specific regions of the brain. TMS has been used successfully in treating depression, anxiety disorders, and other neuropsychiatric disorders. The patent outlines a method for determining target regions for TMS treatment based on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data and analyzing functional connections in the brain. The goal is to personalize TMS treatment and improve its effectiveness. The patent was filed by Neurotherapeutix LLC and published in 2024. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for salt and solid state forms of escitalopram, an antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication. Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorders, social phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The patent describes the use of escitalopram gentisate and its solid state forms for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The invention also encompasses the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions containing escitalopram gentisate. This information may be useful for researchers studying antidepressants and anxiety medications. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Cairo University discusses the influence of b-catenin signaling on neurogenesis in neuropsychiatric disorders, specifically anxiety and depression. The researchers highlight the impact of stress in early life on anxiety and mood problems and the need for new treatment targets. They suggest that a better understanding of brain networks involved in anxiety and depression could lead to more specific treatments. The researchers discuss the role of b-catenin in regulating brain circuits and its involvement in processes such as inflammation-directed brain repair, inflammation-induced brain damage, and neurogenesis. They conclude by discussing possible drugs that target b-catenin and show action on psychiatric disorders. This research has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, the 40 Hz auditory steady-state response (ASSR) is a potential biomarker for schizophrenia and related neuropsychiatric disorders. The study investigated the role of two synaptic components, N-methyl-aspartate glutamate (NMDA) receptors and gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) receptors, in the 40 Hz ASSR in the human auditory cortex. The findings suggest that the 40 Hz ASSR involves GABAergic inhibition, highlighting its usefulness as a mechanistic signature of cortical circuit dysfunctions. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "A Closed-Loop Adaptive Ac Stimulation Neural Network Regulation Method And System" describes a method and system for regulating brain network rhythms using transcranial alternating current stimulation (TACS). The method involves obtaining EEG data, building head models and functional connectivity networks, identifying multiple targets for regulation, and configuring the current parameters of electrical stimulation output at each target. The system includes modules for individualized navigation, AC stimulation, EEG acquisition, and adaptive coupling. The invention aims to achieve effective regulation of neural network rhythms and improve neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial has been launched to explore the role of hypothalamic neurons and microglia in anorexia nervosa (AN) using patient-derived stem cell models. The trial aims to profile Arc neurons and PBMC-derived microglia in AN patients using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to identify potential drug targets. Stem cell models have proven useful in studying neuropsychiatric disorders with a high genetic contribution, and this trial will provide valuable insights into the molecular level of AN. The trial is currently active and not recruiting, with an estimated completion date of December 31, 2026. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the potential correlation between mTORC1 activity and human age-related diseases. The study examines the effects of the drugs ketamine and rapamycin on mTORC1 activity and their effectiveness against chronic pain and depression. The researchers measured phosphorylated p70S6K, a marker for mTORC1 activity, in individuals with psychiatric diseases and found that it correlated with biometric measurements and specific neuropsychiatric disease profiles. The study suggests that a simple assay could predict medication response and highlights the importance of mTORC1 activity in body structure and medication response. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Cambridge discusses the research on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and its underlying mechanisms. The study explores the use of animal models to understand the behavioral and neural aspects of OCD, particularly focusing on maladaptive checking behaviors. The researchers highlight the Observing Response Task (ORT) as a potential tool for studying OCD and testing treatment approaches. The report emphasizes the importance of shedding light on the psychological and neural bases of compulsive-like checking to gain insights into OCD. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by investigators from Duke University explores the potential benefits of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with developmental disorders that involve inflammation. TMS is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic fields to induce electrical changes in the brain. The researchers suggest that TMS may be a useful tool for addressing inflammation-induced dysfunction and downregulating inflammation. They also propose that TMS could be effective in treating neuropsychiatric consequences of disorders such as autism, Tourette syndrome, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The study concludes that TMS has the potential to become an important tool for targeting dysfunctional brain networks affected by inflammation and alleviating associated neuropsychiatric symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at University Hospital Lausanne in Switzerland explores the molecular mechanisms of neuropsychiatric disorders, specifically bipolar disorder. Using Mendelian randomization analysis, the study examines the associations between genetically predicted levels of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid and the brain with various neuropsychiatric disorders and risk factors. The research identifies specific proteins that are implicated in bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, and other conditions. The findings provide genetic evidence for potential therapeutic targets and highlight the need for further exploration of the underlying biological mechanisms. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Shinshu University School of Medicine in Nagano, Japan, has found that exposure to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) may increase the risk of febrile seizures (FS) in offspring by the age of three. The study analyzed data from a large national birth cohort and found that children with intrauterine exposure to mild or severe HDP had a higher incidence of FS compared to those without HDP exposure. This association was independent of preterm birth status. This research provides valuable insights into the impact of HDP on FS in early childhood. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study on the regulation of RNA in growth cones of developing neurons in the cerebral cortex. The researchers focused on two subtypes of projection neurons and identified distinct and shared subcellular machinery involved in RNA localization, stability, and translation within growth cones. They also found enrichment of genes associated with neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. The study provides insights into the molecular controls of circuit development and function, which could contribute to understanding and developing targeted therapeutics for neurodevelopmental and behavioral-cognitive disorders. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, researchers have identified a common brain network that is associated with Alice in Wonderland Syndrome (AIWS), a neurological condition characterized by distortions in body and size perception. The study analyzed 37 cases of lesion-induced AIWS and found that the lesions causing AIWS were located within a specific brain network. This network is connected to the right extrastriate body area, a region involved in body perception, and the inferior parietal cortex, a region involved in processing size and scale. The findings suggest that AIWS is linked to these specific brain regions and provide insights into the neuroanatomy of the syndrome. However, it is important to note that this research has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center discusses research on genetic risk and neuropsychiatric disorders. The study highlights the limitations of using total gene expression as a measure of risk and proposes a new method called isoTWAS, which integrates genetics, isoform-level expression, and phenotypic associations. This multivariate framework allows for the modeling of a greater number of genes and identifies isoform-specific associations with psychiatric traits that are not observed at the gene level. The research emphasizes the importance of incorporating isoform-level resolution in order to increase the discovery of trait associations, particularly for brain-related traits. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract discusses the potential therapeutic use of dopamine D1 receptor agonists for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia. The study used bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assays and a cyclic AMP production functional assay to test the activity of various D1R agonists on Gs and Golf proteins. The results showed that certain tetracyclic catechol compounds acted as full agonists when D1R was coupled to Gs, but only partial agonists when coupled to Golf. Conversely, another compound acted as a full agonist at Golf and a partial agonist at Gs. These findings suggest the possibility of developing region-specific pharmacology for the treatment of relevant disorders. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Use Of Brain Organoids And Single Cell Genomics To Understand And Treat Neurodevelopmental And Neuropsychiatric Disorders" has been published online. The patent application discusses the use of human brain organoids, which are models of the developing human brain, combined with single-cell profiling methods to study the cellular complexity and molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders, specifically autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The inventors propose methods for screening pathological mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders and testing the effects of therapeutic agents on the development of cortical neuronal lineages. The patent application provides insights into the genetic and molecular basis of ASD and offers potential avenues for understanding and treating these disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application has been submitted for a system and method of using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to treat neuropsychiatric disorders. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific regions of the brain. The application proposes using functional connectivity analysis to personalize TMS treatment by identifying treatment regions and networks based on patient information. The system may also incorporate other treatments such as low intensity focused ultrasound or electrical stimulation. The goal is to improve the effectiveness of TMS therapy for conditions like depression and anxiety disorders. The patent application describes systems, methods, and instructions for determining target regions for TMS treatment of brain disorders. The methods involve analyzing functional and structural connections in the brain using fMRI and dMRI data. By identifying areas of the brain that are functionally disconnected or have weaker structural connections, early detection and treatment options for brain damage can be provided. The patent application provides detailed instructions for implementing these methods. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have made discoveries about the TAAR1 receptor, a brain protein that regulates dopamine signaling in reward pathways. Their findings, published in Nature Communications, show that there are significant differences between the TAAR1 receptor in humans and rodents, which may affect the translation of preclinical studies to humans. The study also suggests that the antipsychotic medication asenapine, which targets serotonin and dopamine, may derive some of its therapeutic effects from TAAR1 activation. This research could lead to the development of improved medications and new therapeutic applications for substance use and neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Sao Paulo has found that growth hormone (GH) plays a role in mitigating anxiety and has identified the specific group of neurons responsible for modulating the influence of GH on neuropsychiatric disorders involving anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. The study, which used male mice lacking the GH receptor in a group of somatostatin-expressing neurons, found that the absence of the GH receptor increased anxiety and decreased fear memory. The researchers believe that this discovery could contribute to the development of new classes of anxiolytic drugs. The study also highlighted the potential role of hormones in regulating neurological processes and influencing susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disorders. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences discusses research findings on neuropsychiatry, specifically focusing on the role of glucocorticoids in stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. The study found that these disorders often display sex differences in their frequency and symptoms, and that glucocorticoids may contribute to these differences. The researchers developed knockout mice lacking hippocampal glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors to investigate the sex-specific and independent actions of glucocorticoids in the hippocampus. The study revealed major sex-dependent and independent effects of imbalanced glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor function on gene expression and functional profiles in the hippocampus, which could inform new strategies for treating stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders in men and women. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Fudan University in Shanghai, China, explores the role of serotonin in behavioral flexibility and decision-making. The researchers used computational modeling to compare the effects of manipulating serotonin function in rats and humans. The findings suggest that serotonin plays a crucial role in behavioral flexibility and plasticity, which has implications for understanding neuropsychiatric disorders. The study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Stellenbosch University in South Africa has found that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in our mental health. The gut microbiota communicates with the central nervous system through various signals, ultimately influencing mood, cognitive behavior, and neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism, depression, and schizophrenia. Understanding the interplay between the gut microbiota, enteric nerves, and the central nervous system could lead to the development of novel therapeutic and psychobiotic compounds to improve cognitive functions and prevent mental disorders. This research highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced gut microbiome for mental well-being. [Extracted from the article]

A report from Florida Atlantic University discusses the role of dopamine signaling in neuropsychiatric disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (BPD), and addiction. The study focuses on the dopamine transporter (DAT) Val559 variant, which has been found in boys with ADHD or ASD and a girl with BPD. The researchers found that this variant leads to abnormal dopamine efflux, which activates D2-type dopamine autoreceptors (D2ARs) and disrupts dopamine signaling and behavior differently in males and females. The findings may have translational and therapeutic implications for understanding and treating neuropsychiatric diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Chinese Academy of Sciences explores the field of neuropsychiatry and its connection to abnormal functional connectivity (FC) patterns in specific task contexts. The researchers developed a novel classification framework called TSP-GNN, which incorporates task-specific prior connectome patterns and utilizes graph neural networks (GNN) for disease classification. The study found that different types of neuropsychiatric disorders exhibit distinct task-specific connectivity patterns, and utilizing task-specific nodes improves the accuracy of classification. This research provides valuable insights into the cognitive mechanisms of neuropsychiatric diseases and their association with brain dysfunction. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Cincinnati discusses the findings of a study on pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcus (PANDAS) and pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS), which are forms of idiopathic autoimmune encephalitis (IAE). The study highlights the challenges in accurately diagnosing IAE due to its clinically heterogeneous phenotypes. The report outlines current knowledge of IAE pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and epidemiology, as well as diagnostic recommendations and treatment guidelines. The researchers emphasize the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms and optimal treatment for IAE. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the use of deep learning methods for diagnosing major depressive disorder (MDD) using electroencephalogram (EEG) data. The study evaluates six different data augmentation (DA) approaches to improve the performance of the model. The researchers find that most DA approaches enhance the model's performance, but using a duplicate training set without DA yields similar results. However, channel dropout augmentation does improve the model's performance. The study also examines the effects of DA approaches on the representations learned by the model. The findings suggest the importance of comparing EEG DA methods to a baseline with a duplicate training set. The article concludes by highlighting the need for future studies on deep learning for small EEG datasets and new EEG DA methods. [Extracted from the article]