A newly developed gene therapy shows great potential for treating glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss. The therapy protects retinal ganglion cells, essential for vision, and improves their function in animal models of glaucoma. It also enhances energy production in human retinal cells, which could prevent further damage. This therapy offers a new and promising approach to treating a condition that affects millions worldwide.

A new study shows that out-of-body experiences (OBEs), including near-death experiences, can dramatically increase empathy and transform how individuals connect with others. Researchers suggest this may result from "ego dissolution," where individuals lose their sense of self and feel deeply connected to the universe.

Scientists identified key changes in chromosome structure and gene expression that contribute to stem cell exhaustion during aging. Using fruit flies, they discovered that blocking the gene ced-6 led to stem cell depletion, even in young organisms.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated brain maturation in adolescents, particularly girls, with their brains aging by an average of 4.2 years. The study links this acceleration to the stress of reduced social interaction during lockdowns, affecting brain regions responsible for emotional regulation.

Researchers have mapped how propofol, a widely used anesthetic, alters brain connectivity to induce unconsciousness. Using fMRI, they found that propofol disrupts connections in the thalamus, reducing complex information processing and limiting sensory integration.

Researchers believe that cracking the brain's "neural code" could lead to AI surpassing human intelligence in capacity and speed. This neural code refers to how the brain processes sensory information and performs cognitive tasks like learning and problem-solving.

Low doses of carbon monoxide, similar to levels experienced by smokers, can protect against neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease models. Researchers discovered that carbon monoxide reduced the accumulation of the Parkinson’s-associated protein alpha-synuclein and activated pathways that limit oxidative stress.

Researchers have developed a dynamic method to track rapid brain activity changes, especially related to craving. Unlike traditional neuroimaging, which captures only a snapshot of brain activity, this approach provides a real-time view of how craving fluctuates.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression varies based on the presence of tau and amyloid-beta (Aβ) proteins in the brain. Patients with high levels of both tau and Aβ experience rapid memory decline, while those with high Aβ but low tau show a slower progression. The research emphasizes that tau levels are crucial for diagnosing and managing AD effectively. This insight could lead to more personalized treatment strategies as biomarker technology advances.

Researchers developed a highly selective fluorescent probe to image serotonin in cells and animal models, shedding light on its role in depression. The study revealed that while serotonin levels in normal and “depressed” cells are similar, depressive cells release significantly less serotonin.

People with a history of upper gastrointestinal (GI) damage have a 76% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The research highlights how conditions like GERD, peptic ulcers, and NSAID use may increase the risk of this neurodegenerative disorder.

A new study compared two advanced imaging methods, dMRI-based tractography and PS-OCT, to map nerve fiber orientations in the human brainstem. The findings suggest that combining these techniques could enhance our understanding of brain microstructure, which may lead to early detection of neurodegenerative diseases.