Researchers in Japan built a miniature human brain circuit using fused stem-cell–derived organoids, allowing them to watch the thalamus and cortex interact in real time. They found that the thalamus ...

A comprehensive new review published in the journal Science China Life Sciences synthesizes decades of research to explain how anxiety and depression arise from a complex interplay of genetic ...

Researchers have identified a brain pathway that regulates breathing and calms the mind. It could pave the way for new medications, like a so-called “yoga pill,” to ease anxiety. The discovery also ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. William A. Haseltine, Ph.D., covers genomics and regenerative medicine A recent study from Cell inches us closer to understanding ...

Distinct brain circuits drive two key components of addiction to the synthetic opioid drug fentanyl, according to a new finding published in Nature (2024, DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07440-x). The ...

A newly identified part of a brain circuit mixes sensory information, memories, and emotions to tell whether things are familiar or new, and important or just 'background noise.' A newly identified ...

Using sensors and a light-activated drug, the team mapped neural pathways used by endogenous opioids to send pain relief ...

A meta-analysis of 36 studies showed 415 brain coordinates activated by creative tasks. Coordinates suggested a common brain circuit defined by negative functional connectivity to the right frontal ...

Whether it is a Friday-night drink with friends, a quiet glass of wine to unwind after a long day, or as a wedding toast, alcohol has woven itself into celebration, comfort, and routine. This ...

How does the placebo effect work? A new study identifies the vlPAG brain region and endogenous opioid signaling as the keys to expectancy-driven pain relief.