New research published in the journal Nature has revealed that our brain weakens new connections between cells, or neurons&nbsp;when awake during the first half of a night's sleep.&nbsp;

The study carried out on zebrafish, discovered that while awake, the connections between neurons get stronger and more complex, but if the activity continued without interruptions, it would be 'energetically unsustainable.'&nbsp;

<h2>What did the study reveal?</h2>

"Too many active connections between brain cells could prevent new connections from being made the following day. While the function of sleep remains mysterious, it may be serving as an ‘off-line’ period when those connections can be weakened across the brain, in preparation for us to learn new things the following day," Jason Rihel the lead author of the study from the University College London, UK, said.

<h2>How did the&nbsp;researchers conduct this study?</h2>

The researchers reached the result by studying optically transparent zebrafish over multiple sleep-wake cycles.

Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidbjdIwWrmjd0W" /><a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/cocaine-and-morphine-trump-food-and-water-in-brains-reward-hierarchy-study-715966" target="_blank">Cocaine and morphine trump food and water in brain’s reward hierarchy: Study</a>

<h2>Why&nbsp;Zebrafish?</h2>

Zebrafish&nbsp;contained genes that allowed the connections between neurons known as synapses, to be easily seen. The researchers observed that connections between brain cells were formed during awake hours and subsequently destroyed during sleep.&nbsp;

Additionally, they discovered that this was contingent upon the animal developing a "need for sleep," or sleep pressure, before being permitted to rest. The researchers discovered that when the fish were deprived of sleep for a few more hours, the connections between neurons increased until the fish fell asleep.&nbsp;

"If the patterns we observed hold true in humans, our findings suggest that this remodelling of synapses might be less effective during a mid-day nap, when sleep pressure is still low, rather than at night, when we really need the sleep," Rihel added.&nbsp;

The rearranging of connections that occurs during the first half of the animal's night sleep mimics the pattern of slow-wave activity, which is highest at the start of the night, according to the researchers.&nbsp;

<h2>Synaptic Homeostasis Hypothesis</h2>

The findings endorse the Synaptic Homeostasis Hypothesis, which states that sleep functions as a 'reset' for the brain. "There are other theories around sleep being a time for waste clearance in the brain, or repair for damaged cells - perhaps other functions kick in for the second half of the night," Anya, the first author of the study said.

New research published in the journal Nature has revealed that our brain weakens new connections between cells, or neurons when awake during the first half of a night's sleep.

New research published in the journal Nature has revealed that our brain weakens new connections between cells, or neurons when awake during the first half of a night's sleep. The study carried out on zebrafish, discovered that while awake, the connections between neurons get stronger and more complex, but if the activity continued without interruptions, it would be 'energetically unsustainable.' What did the study reveal? "Too many active connections between brain cells could prevent new connections from being made the following day. While the function of sleep remains mysterious, it may be serving as an ‘off-line’ period when those connections can be weakened across the brain, in preparation for us to learn new things the following day," Jason Rihel the lead author of the study from the University College London, UK, said. How did the researchers conduct this study? The researchers reached the result by studying optically transparent zebrafish over multiple sleep-wake cycles. Also read: Cocaine and morphine trump food and water in brain’s reward hierarchy: Study Why Zebrafish? Zebrafish contained genes that allowed the connections between neurons known as synapses, to be easily seen. The researchers observed that connections between brain cells were formed during awake hours and subsequently destroyed during sleep. Additionally, they discovered that this was contingent upon the animal developing a "need for sleep," or sleep pressure, before being permitted to rest. The researchers discovered that when the fish were deprived of sleep for a few more hours, the connections between neurons increased until the fish fell asleep. "If the patterns we observed hold true in humans, our findings suggest that this remodelling of synapses might be less effective during a mid-day nap, when sleep pressure is still low, rather than at night, when we really need the sleep," Rihel added. The rearranging of connections that occurs during the first half of the animal's night sleep mimics the pattern of slow-wave activity, which is highest at the start of the night, according to the researchers. Synaptic Homeostasis Hypothesis The findings endorse the Synaptic Homeostasis Hypothesis, which states that sleep functions as a 'reset' for the brain. "There are other theories around sleep being a time for waste clearance in the brain, or repair for damaged cells - perhaps other functions kick in for the second half of the night," Anya, the first author of the study said.

Brain weakens neuronal connections while you sleep, but only during first half

In a path-breaking study, researchers have created artificial neurological junctions called synapses using a mix of water and salt, paving the way for the development of advanced computers that mimic the performance of a human brain. The artificial brain cells, developed by the team from Utrecht University in the Netherlands and Sogang University in South Korea, use the same water and salt ingredients the brain uses.

The&nbsp;results of the study&nbsp;were published&nbsp;in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Scientists striving to develop energy efficient and high-performance computers&nbsp;often&nbsp;look up to human brains as a source of inspiration.

But guess what, human&nbsp;brains use water and dissolved salt particles called ions as their medium. On the other hand, current advanced computer systems rely on conventional solid materials for the same function.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Hamas says studying new Israeli truce proposal

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-hamas-says-studying-new-israeli-truce-proposal-715738/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

So, the recent study can lead to further scientific development towards&nbsp;the ambition of&nbsp;creating an artificial human brain.

"It represents a crucial advancement toward computers not only capable of mimicking the communication patterns of the human brain but also utilising the same medium," says theoretical physicist Tim Kamsma from Utrecht University.

<h2>What is Iontronic memristor?</h2>

The device that scientists have created is called an Iontronic memristor, which carries water and salt inside. The cone-shaped device is just 150 by 200 micrometres wide, the same width as three or four human hairs put side-by-side.

It remembers how much electrical charge has previously flowed through it. Electrical impulses cause ions to move through the cone-shaped channel, with variations in the electrical charge leading to variations in the ion movement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjY3Zm-x-eFAxXh1TgGHVEZD9Q4ChDF9AEoAHoECA8QAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-crew-of-israel-linked-ship-which-includes-indians-will-be-freed-715635" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-crew-of-israel-linked-ship-which-includes-indians-will-be-freed-715635&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjY3Zm-x-eFAxXh1TgGHVEZD9Q4ChDF9AEoAHoECA8QAQ">Iran says crew of Israel-linked ship which includes Indians will be freed</a>

"While artificial synapses capable of processing complex information already exist based on solid materials, we now show for the first time that this feat can also be accomplished using water and salt," says Kamsma.

"We are effectively replicating neuronal behaviour using a system that employs the same medium as the brain."

(With inputs from agencies)

In a path-breaking study, researchers have created artificial neurological junctions called synapses using a mix of water and salt, paving the way for the development of advanced computers that mimic the performance of a human brain.

In a path-breaking study, researchers have created artificial neurological junctions called synapses using a mix of water and salt, paving the way for the development of advanced computers that mimic the performance of a human brain. The artificial brain cells, developed by the team from Utrecht University in the Netherlands and Sogang University in South Korea, use the same water and salt ingredients the brain uses. The results of the study were published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Scientists striving to develop energy efficient and high-performance computers often look up to human brains as a source of inspiration. But guess what, human brains use water and dissolved salt particles called ions as their medium. On the other hand, current advanced computer systems rely on conventional solid materials for the same function. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: Hamas says studying new Israeli truce proposal × So, the recent study can lead to further scientific development towards the ambition of creating an artificial human brain. "It represents a crucial advancement toward computers not only capable of mimicking the communication patterns of the human brain but also utilising the same medium," says theoretical physicist Tim Kamsma from Utrecht University. What is Iontronic memristor? The device that scientists have created is called an Iontronic memristor, which carries water and salt inside. The cone-shaped device is just 150 by 200 micrometres wide, the same width as three or four human hairs put side-by-side. It remembers how much electrical charge has previously flowed through it. Electrical impulses cause ions to move through the cone-shaped channel, with variations in the electrical charge leading to variations in the ion movement. Also read: Iran says crew of Israel-linked ship which includes Indians will be freed "While artificial synapses capable of processing complex information already exist based on solid materials, we now show for the first time that this feat can also be accomplished using water and salt," says Kamsma. "We are effectively replicating neuronal behaviour using a system that employs the same medium as the brain." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists develop artificial brain cell using mix of salt and water

According to research published in the journal Nature, every time we create a memory, it harms our brain sells. This is because each memory creation causes inflammation in the brain and DNA damage in nerve cells as the memories are 'fused' into neurons and preserved.

According to research published in the journal Nature, every time we create a memory, it harms our brain sells. This is because each memory creation causes inflammation in the brain and DNA damage in nerve cells as the memories are 'fused' into neurons and preserved. The memory formation process includes creating and fortifying connections between neurons, which allows information to be stored and retrieved later. However, this process harms the brain cells involved. According to the latest research, the act of remembering something for an extended period causes brain inflammation and DNA damage in nerve cells. Researchers conducted experiments on mice for the study and concluded that memory formation occurs within the hippocampus, a portion of the brain that is the major storage store for human memories and is essential to the process of remembering. "Inflammation of brain neurons is usually considered to be a bad thing since it can lead to neurological problems such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. But our findings suggest that inflammation in certain neurons in the brain's hippocampal region is essential for making long-lasting memories," neuroscientist Jelena Radulovic from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York told Science Alert. To stimulate their memory, the mice were given brief moderate electric shocks. A closer examination of the hippocampus neurons revealed gene activity in receptor pathways critical for inflammatory signalling. Also read: Spiders on Mars? ESA's Mars Express captures unique phenomenon on the red planet Furthermore, that pathway was exclusively active in neuron clusters that had DNA damage. While DNA breaks in the brain occur often, they are typically repaired relatively fast. However, in this case, the changes were bigger. The brain seemed to use processes usually used for making new cells to group neurons together for making memories, without actually making new cells. "This is noteworthy because we're constantly flooded by information, and the neurons that encode memories need to preserve the information they've already acquired and not be distracted by new inputs," said Jelena Radulovic.

Study finds every new memory you make harms brain cells

Japanese scientists have reportedly developed a technique to connect lab-grown brain-mimicking tissue in a way that functions like circuits in our brain. Researchers at the University of Tokyo published a study in the journal Nature Communications, exploring materialising an idea always considered pretty far-fetched. The authors revealed that they found a new way to create physiological connections between lab-grown neural organoids. These organoids are experimental model tissue in which human stem cells are grown into 3D developmental brain-mimicking structures. The physiological connections were built via axonal bundles, which is similar to how regions are connected in the living human brain.

“Animal studies are limited by differences between species in brain structure and function, and brain cells grown in the lab tend to lack the characteristic connections of cells in the human brain,” said University of Tokyo’s Dr Yoshiho Ikeuchi and colleagues.

“What’s more, we are increasingly realizing that these interregional connections, and the circuits that they create, are important for many of the brain functions that define us as humans,” they added.

The researchers stimulated the axonal bundles using a technique known as optogenetics. It was observed that the organoids were affected by these changes for some time as the organoid activity was altered.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwid_vfTr8SFAxU-V0EAHZVfAqUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-land-in-australia-which-has-drowned-was-once-aboriginal-hotspot-in-ice-age-711399" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/a-land-in-australia-which-has-drowned-was-once-aboriginal-hotspot-in-ice-age-711399&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid_vfTr8SFAxU-V0EAHZVfAqUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">A land in Australia, which has drowned, was once Aboriginal hotspot in ice age</a>

“These findings suggest that axonal bundle connections are important for developing complex networks,” said Dr Ikeuchi.

He added that the complex brain networks command various actions of bodies, including speaking, hearing and emotions.

“Given that alterations in brain networks have been associated with various neurological and psychiatric conditions, a better understanding of brain networks is important,” the researcher said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwid_vfTr8SFAxU-V0EAHZVfAqUQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-two-great-techniques-to-overcome-past-negative-events-710861" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-two-great-techniques-to-overcome-past-negative-events-710861&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid_vfTr8SFAxU-V0EAHZVfAqUQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Scientists discover two great techniques to overcome past negative events</a>

The study about lab-grown human neural circuits is slated to expand the scope of our understanding in the long run and add to previous studies on the concept.

“Previous studies have tried to create brain circuits under laboratory conditions, which have been advancing the field,” the researchers said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Japanese scientists have reportedly developed a technique to connect lab-grown brain-mimicking tissue in a way that functions like circuits in our brain. Researchers at the University of Tokyo published a study in the journal Nature Communications, exploring materialising an idea always considered pretty far-fetched.

Japanese scientists have reportedly developed a technique to connect lab-grown brain-mimicking tissue in a way that functions like circuits in our brain. Researchers at the University of Tokyo published a study in the journal Nature Communications, exploring materialising an idea always considered pretty far-fetched. The authors revealed that they found a new way to create physiological connections between lab-grown neural organoids. These organoids are experimental model tissue in which human stem cells are grown into 3D developmental brain-mimicking structures. The physiological connections were built via axonal bundles, which is similar to how regions are connected in the living human brain. “Animal studies are limited by differences between species in brain structure and function, and brain cells grown in the lab tend to lack the characteristic connections of cells in the human brain,” said University of Tokyo’s Dr Yoshiho Ikeuchi and colleagues. “What’s more, we are increasingly realizing that these interregional connections, and the circuits that they create, are important for many of the brain functions that define us as humans,” they added. The researchers stimulated the axonal bundles using a technique known as optogenetics. It was observed that the organoids were affected by these changes for some time as the organoid activity was altered. Also read: A land in Australia, which has drowned, was once Aboriginal hotspot in ice age “These findings suggest that axonal bundle connections are important for developing complex networks,” said Dr Ikeuchi. He added that the complex brain networks command various actions of bodies, including speaking, hearing and emotions. “Given that alterations in brain networks have been associated with various neurological and psychiatric conditions, a better understanding of brain networks is important,” the researcher said. Also read: Scientists discover two great techniques to overcome past negative events The study about lab-grown human neural circuits is slated to expand the scope of our understanding in the long run and add to previous studies on the concept. “Previous studies have tried to create brain circuits under laboratory conditions, which have been advancing the field,” the researchers said. (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese scientists develop technique to connect brain cells grown in lab

A new study revealed that brain cell components began forming around 800 million years ago in shallow seas. Experts from Spain and Germany have discovered characteristics of specialised secretory cells in simple animals called placozoans.&nbsp;

These basic creatures have no organs and are roughly the size of a grain of sand, consisting of little more than a colony of different cell types. Placozoans once hunted microbes and browsed algae in the warm shallows of seas 800 million years ago.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/elon-musks-neuralink-to-start-human-trial-of-its-brain-implant-for-paralysis-patients-637924">Elon Musk's Neuralink gets OK for human trial of its brain implant for paralysis patients</a>

<h2>Parallels between neurons and 800 million years old cells</h2>

Centre for Genomic Regulation cell biologist Sebastián Najle and colleagues discovered these so-called peptidergic cells have a number of uncannily similar traits to the cells we owe our own smarts.

"We were astounded by the parallels," exclaims Najle.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/human-brain-works-even-after-death-scientists-show-in-a-study-637892">Human brain can work even after death, scientists show in new study</a>

"The placozoan peptidergic cells have many similarities to primitive neuronal cells, even if they aren't quite there yet. It's like looking at an evolutionary stepping stone."&nbsp;

After a genetic analysis was carried out, it was found that cells coordinated the tiny animal’s behaviours by releasing peptide signals much as neurons do.&nbsp;

The researchers identified 14 different types of peptide cells in the small marine animals. Comparing the tissues in four known placozoa species as well as with other early animals, the team found these cells even have some of the same genes as our neurons.

But there were a few differences between the two. The placozoan cells were missing specialised components that our neurons have to receive peptide signals or generate electrical signals. Instead, they use receptor proteins (GCPR) to receive the chemical messages, which are common across many animal cell types and not specific to neurons.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-curiosity-rover-reaches-mars-ridge-to-study-red-planets-watery-past-637891">NASA's Curiosity rover reaches Mars ridge to study Red Planet's watery past</a>

The genes of the peptide-releasing cells were highly conserved in all the placozoans, but absent in other early animals like sponges and comb jellies (ctenophores).

This suggests the peptide-secreting cells may have evolved before other neuron-like cells.

The first known modern neuron arose around 650 million years ago in the common ancestor of jellyfish and the bilaterian group of animals that led to us.

"Cells are the fundamental units of life, so understanding how they come into being or change over time is key to explain the evolutionary story of life. Placozoans, ctenophores, sponges and other non-traditional model animals harbour secrets that we are only just beginning to unlock," concludes evolutionary biologist Arnau Sebé-Pedros.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A new study revealed that brain cell components began forming around 800 million years ago in shallow seas. Experts from Spain and Germany have discovered characteristics of specialised secretory cells in simple animals called placozoans.

A new study revealed that brain cell components began forming around 800 million years ago in shallow seas. Experts from Spain and Germany have discovered characteristics of specialised secretory cells in simple animals called placozoans. These basic creatures have no organs and are roughly the size of a grain of sand, consisting of little more than a colony of different cell types. Placozoans once hunted microbes and browsed algae in the warm shallows of seas 800 million years ago. Also Read | Elon Musk's Neuralink gets OK for human trial of its brain implant for paralysis patients Parallels between neurons and 800 million years old cells Centre for Genomic Regulation cell biologist Sebastián Najle and colleagues discovered these so-called peptidergic cells have a number of uncannily similar traits to the cells we owe our own smarts. "We were astounded by the parallels," exclaims Najle. Also Read | Human brain can work even after death, scientists show in new study "The placozoan peptidergic cells have many similarities to primitive neuronal cells, even if they aren't quite there yet. It's like looking at an evolutionary stepping stone." After a genetic analysis was carried out, it was found that cells coordinated the tiny animal’s behaviours by releasing peptide signals much as neurons do. The researchers identified 14 different types of peptide cells in the small marine animals. Comparing the tissues in four known placozoa species as well as with other early animals, the team found these cells even have some of the same genes as our neurons. But there were a few differences between the two. The placozoan cells were missing specialised components that our neurons have to receive peptide signals or generate electrical signals. Instead, they use receptor proteins (GCPR) to receive the chemical messages, which are common across many animal cell types and not specific to neurons. Also Read | NASA's Curiosity rover reaches Mars ridge to study Red Planet's watery past The genes of the peptide-releasing cells were highly conserved in all the placozoans, but absent in other early animals like sponges and comb jellies (ctenophores). This suggests the peptide-secreting cells may have evolved before other neuron-like cells. The first known modern neuron arose around 650 million years ago in the common ancestor of jellyfish and the bilaterian group of animals that led to us. "Cells are the fundamental units of life, so understanding how they come into being or change over time is key to explain the evolutionary story of life. Placozoans, ctenophores, sponges and other non-traditional model animals harbour secrets that we are only just beginning to unlock," concludes evolutionary biologist Arnau Sebé-Pedros. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Origins of brain cells found in 800 million-year-old creatures

In a biological experiment, scientists teach brain cells in a dish to play the video game 'Pong'. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Scientists teach neurons to play 'Pong'

The frozen neuronal structures were discovered at the at the archaeological site of Herculaneum, an ancient Roman city, as described by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

"The study of vitrified tissue as the one we found at Herculaneum... may save lives in future," said the study's lead author Pier Paolo Petrone, forensic anthropologist at Naples' University Federico II.

Also read&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/24-planets-may-have-more-suitable-conditions-for-life-than-earth-study-332631">24 planets may have more suitable conditions for life than Earth: Study</a>

"The experimentation continues on several research fields, and the data and information we are obtaining will allow us to clarify other and newer aspects of what happened 2000 years ago during the most famous eruption of Vesuvius."

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-new-stunning-time-lapse-video-shows-a-gigantic-star-exploding-332599">NASA's new stunning time lapse video shows a gigantic star exploding</a>

It is being said that the man was around the age of 20 when he was killed and his remains were found in the 1960s spread out on a wooden bed.&nbsp;

The lead author of the study published in science journal PLOS ONE explained that the extreme heat and the instant cooling of the eruption transformed the brain material into a glassy material, which froze the neuronal structures. &nbsp;

"The evidence of a rapid drop of temperature -- witnessed by the vitrified brain tissue -- is a unique feature of the volcanic processes occurring during the eruption, as it could provide relevant information for possible interventions by civil protection authorities during the initial stages of a future eruption," said Petrone. 
&nbsp;

The frozen neuronal structures were discovered at the at the archaeological site of Herculaneum, an ancient Roman city, as described by news agency AFP. "The study of vitrified tissue as the one we found at Herculaneum.

The frozen neuronal structures were discovered at the at the archaeological site of Herculaneum, an ancient Roman city, as described by news agency AFP. "The study of vitrified tissue as the one we found at Herculaneum... may save lives in future," said the study's lead author Pier Paolo Petrone, forensic anthropologist at Naples' University Federico II. Also read | 24 planets may have more suitable conditions for life than Earth: Study "The experimentation continues on several research fields, and the data and information we are obtaining will allow us to clarify other and newer aspects of what happened 2000 years ago during the most famous eruption of Vesuvius." Also read | NASA's new stunning time lapse video shows a gigantic star exploding It is being said that the man was around the age of 20 when he was killed and his remains were found in the 1960s spread out on a wooden bed. The lead author of the study published in science journal PLOS ONE explained that the extreme heat and the instant cooling of the eruption transformed the brain material into a glassy material, which froze the neuronal structures. "The evidence of a rapid drop of temperature -- witnessed by the vitrified brain tissue -- is a unique feature of the volcanic processes occurring during the eruption, as it could provide relevant information for possible interventions by civil protection authorities during the initial stages of a future eruption," said Petrone.

Oldest human brain? Cells of man killed 2,000 years ago found

A report released yesterday shows in graphic detail the kind of damage Zika infections can do to the developing brain - damage that goes well beyond the devastating birth defect known as microcephaly, in which the baby&#39;s head is smaller than normal. 
 
The current Zika outbreak was first detected last year in Brazil, where the virus has been linked to more than 1,800 cases of microcephaly, which can cause severe developmental problems. 
 
Prior research has shown the Zika virus attacks neural progenitor cells - a type of stem cell that develops into different types of nerve or brain cells. 
 
The latest research, published in the journal Radiology, draws from imaging and autopsy findings linked with confirmed Zika infections done on 17 infants and fetuses cared for at the Instituto de Pesquisa, in Campina Grande in the state of Paraiba in northeastern Brazil, where the infection has been especially severe. 
 
The study also included reports on 28 fetuses or newborns with brain anomalies whose mothers were suspected of having Zika during pregnancy. 
 
Nearly all babies in each group had ventriculomegaly, a condition in which the ventricles, or fluid-filled spaces in the brain, are enlarged. 
 
While most of the fetuses had at least one exam showing abnormally small head circumference, suggesting they had microcephaly, three of the fetuses with ventriculomegaly had normal head circumference, but severe ventriculomegaly. 
 
Nearly all of the fetuses or babies in the confirmed Zika group and nearly 80 per cent of those in the presumed Zika group also had abnormalities of the corpus callosum - a large bundle of nerves that facilitates communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. 
 
In all but one of the cases studied, the researchers found instances in which developing neurons did not travel to their proper destination in the brain. 
 
In many cases, the babies&#39; skulls seemed to have collapsed on themselves, with overlapping tissues and abnormal skin folds suggestive of a brain that had stopped growing. 
 
&quot;From an imaging standpoint, the abnormalities in the brain are very severe when compared to other congenital infections,&rdquo; said study co-author Dr. Deborah Levine of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and a radiology professor at Harvard Medical School. 
 
As with other reports, the paper suggests that Zika does the most harm in the first trimester of pregnancy. The researchers plan to keep following the cases to see what impact prenatal Zika infections have on future brain development. 
 
There is no vaccine or treatment for Zika, which is a close cousin of dengue and chikungunya and causes mild fever, rash and red eyes. An estimated 80 per cent of people infected have no symptoms, making it difficult for pregnant women to know whether they have been infected. 
 
Zika is carried by mosquitoes, which transmit the virus to humans. A small number of cases of sexual transmission have been reported in the United States and elsewhere. 
 
(Reuters)

Nearly all babies in each group had ventriculomegaly, a condition in which the fluid-filled spaces in the brain, are enlarged

A report released yesterday shows in graphic detail the kind of damage Zika infections can do to the developing brain - damage that goes well beyond the devastating birth defect known as microcephaly, in which the baby's head is smaller than normal. The current Zika outbreak was first detected last year in Brazil, where the virus has been linked to more than 1,800 cases of microcephaly, which can cause severe developmental problems. Prior research has shown the Zika virus attacks neural progenitor cells - a type of stem cell that develops into different types of nerve or brain cells. The latest research, published in the journal Radiology, draws from imaging and autopsy findings linked with confirmed Zika infections done on 17 infants and fetuses cared for at the Instituto de Pesquisa, in Campina Grande in the state of Paraiba in northeastern Brazil, where the infection has been especially severe. The study also included reports on 28 fetuses or newborns with brain anomalies whose mothers were suspected of having Zika during pregnancy. Nearly all babies in each group had ventriculomegaly, a condition in which the ventricles, or fluid-filled spaces in the brain, are enlarged. While most of the fetuses had at least one exam showing abnormally small head circumference, suggesting they had microcephaly, three of the fetuses with ventriculomegaly had normal head circumference, but severe ventriculomegaly. Nearly all of the fetuses or babies in the confirmed Zika group and nearly 80 per cent of those in the presumed Zika group also had abnormalities of the corpus callosum - a large bundle of nerves that facilitates communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. In all but one of the cases studied, the researchers found instances in which developing neurons did not travel to their proper destination in the brain. In many cases, the babies' skulls seemed to have collapsed on themselves, with overlapping tissues and abnormal skin folds suggestive of a brain that had stopped growing. "From an imaging standpoint, the abnormalities in the brain are very severe when compared to other congenital infections,” said study co-author Dr. Deborah Levine of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and a radiology professor at Harvard Medical School. As with other reports, the paper suggests that Zika does the most harm in the first trimester of pregnancy. The researchers plan to keep following the cases to see what impact prenatal Zika infections have on future brain development. There is no vaccine or treatment for Zika, which is a close cousin of dengue and chikungunya and causes mild fever, rash and red eyes. An estimated 80 per cent of people infected have no symptoms, making it difficult for pregnant women to know whether they have been infected. Zika is carried by mosquitoes, which transmit the virus to humans. A small number of cases of sexual transmission have been reported in the United States and elsewhere. (Reuters)

Study shows extent of brain damage from Zika infections

Compounds present in marijuana may promote the cellular removal of a toxic protein associated with Alzheimer&#39;s disease, a finding that could help treat the brain disorder, a new study has claimed. 
 
&quot;Although other studies have offered evidence that cannabinoids might be neuroprotective against the symptoms of Alzheimer&#39;s, we believe our study is the first to demonstrate that cannabinoids affect both inflammation and amyloid beta accumulation in nerve cells,&quot; said David Schubert from Salk Institute in the US. 
 
Alzheimer&#39;s disease is a progressive brain disorder that leads to memory loss and can seriously impair a person&#39;s ability to carry out daily tasks. 
 
Scientists have found preliminary evidence that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other compounds found in marijuana can promote the cellular removal of amyloid beta, a toxic protein associated with Alzheimer&#39;s disease. 
 
It has long been known that amyloid beta accumulates within the nerve cells of the ageing brain well before the appearance of Alzheimer&#39;s disease symptoms and plaques, researchers said. 
 
Amyloid beta is a major component of the plaque deposits that are a hallmark of the disease. But the precise role of amyloid beta and the plaques it forms in the disease process remains unclear, they said. 
 
In the new study, researchers studied nerve cells altered to produce high levels of amyloid beta to mimic aspects of Alzheimer&#39;s disease. 
 
They found that high levels of amyloid beta were associated with cellular inflammation and higher rates of neuron death. 
 
They demonstrated that exposing the cells to THC reduced amyloid beta protein levels and eliminated the inflammatory response from the nerve cells caused by the protein, thereby allowing the nerve cells to survive. 
 
&quot;Inflammation within the brain is a major component of the damage associated with Alzheimer&#39;s disease, but it has always been assumed that this response was coming from immune-like cells in the brain, not the nerve cells themselves,&quot; said Antonio Currais from Salk. 
 
&quot;When we were able to identify the molecular basis of the inflammatory response to amyloid beta, it became clear that THC-like compounds that the nerve cells make themselves may be involved in protecting the cells from dying,&quot; said Currais. 
 
Brain cells have switches known as receptors that can be activated by endocannabinoids, a class of lipid molecules made by the body that are used for intercellular signalling in the brain, researchers said. 
 
The psychoactive effects of marijuana are caused by THC, a molecule similar in activity to endocannabinoids that can activate the same receptors, they said. 
 
Physical activity results in the production of endocannabinoids and some studies have shown that exercise may slow the progression of Alzheimer&#39;s disease, researchers said. 
 
The findings were published in the journal Ageing and Mechanisms of Disease. 
 
(PTI)

Preliminary evidence shows that compounds found in marijuana can promote the cellular removal of a toxic protein associated with the disease

Compounds present in marijuana may promote the cellular removal of a toxic protein associated with Alzheimer's disease, a finding that could help treat the brain disorder, a new study has claimed. "Although other studies have offered evidence that cannabinoids might be neuroprotective against the symptoms of Alzheimer's, we believe our study is the first to demonstrate that cannabinoids affect both inflammation and amyloid beta accumulation in nerve cells," said David Schubert from Salk Institute in the US. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that leads to memory loss and can seriously impair a person's ability to carry out daily tasks. Scientists have found preliminary evidence that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other compounds found in marijuana can promote the cellular removal of amyloid beta, a toxic protein associated with Alzheimer's disease. It has long been known that amyloid beta accumulates within the nerve cells of the ageing brain well before the appearance of Alzheimer's disease symptoms and plaques, researchers said. Amyloid beta is a major component of the plaque deposits that are a hallmark of the disease. But the precise role of amyloid beta and the plaques it forms in the disease process remains unclear, they said. In the new study, researchers studied nerve cells altered to produce high levels of amyloid beta to mimic aspects of Alzheimer's disease. They found that high levels of amyloid beta were associated with cellular inflammation and higher rates of neuron death. They demonstrated that exposing the cells to THC reduced amyloid beta protein levels and eliminated the inflammatory response from the nerve cells caused by the protein, thereby allowing the nerve cells to survive. "Inflammation within the brain is a major component of the damage associated with Alzheimer's disease, but it has always been assumed that this response was coming from immune-like cells in the brain, not the nerve cells themselves," said Antonio Currais from Salk. "When we were able to identify the molecular basis of the inflammatory response to amyloid beta, it became clear that THC-like compounds that the nerve cells make themselves may be involved in protecting the cells from dying," said Currais. Brain cells have switches known as receptors that can be activated by endocannabinoids, a class of lipid molecules made by the body that are used for intercellular signalling in the brain, researchers said. The psychoactive effects of marijuana are caused by THC, a molecule similar in activity to endocannabinoids that can activate the same receptors, they said. Physical activity results in the production of endocannabinoids and some studies have shown that exercise may slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, researchers said. The findings were published in the journal Ageing and Mechanisms of Disease. (PTI)

Marijuana may help treat Alzheimer's: Study

brain-cells

Brain Cells, News on Brain Cells, stories on Brain Cells, articles on Brain Cells, Brain Cells stories at Wion, Brain Cells news, Brain Cells latest news