neurodegeneration – Page 3

Synaptic degeneration in the prefrontal cortex of a rat AD model revealed by volume electron microscopy

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Researchers used advanced microscopy techniques to examine brain tissue from rats with Alzheimer’s disease and compared it to healthy rats. They found that Alzheimer’s disease causes damage to connections between brain cells (synapses) in a brain region important for thinking and memory. Specifically, the connections were weaker and smaller, and many new spine-like structures formed but didn’t properly connect to other cells, suggesting the brain may be trying unsuccessfully to compensate for the disease.

Chemical Composition and In Vitro Biological Activity of the Polar and Non-Polar Fractions Obtained from the Roots of Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Maxim

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Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) roots contain powerful antioxidant compounds that may help with inflammation, blood sugar control, and brain health. Researchers found that certain plant fractions were particularly rich in protective compounds like chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid. However, the study also discovered a concerning finding: these plant compounds protected cancer cells from chemotherapy drugs, suggesting people undergoing cancer treatment should be cautious about using this supplement.

GDF11 slows excitatory neuronal senescence and brain ageing by repressing p21

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As we age, brain cells called excitatory neurons undergo senescence, similar to cellular ageing. This study found that a protein called GDF11 protects these neurons from ageing. When GDF11 was removed from excitatory neurons in mice, the neurons aged faster, leading to memory problems and shorter lifespans. The research reveals that GDF11 works by blocking p21, a molecule that promotes cellular ageing.

Intrinsic determinants of prion protein neurotoxicity in Drosophila: from sequence to (dys)function

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Prion diseases are deadly brain conditions caused by misfolded proteins. This study used computer simulations and fruit fly experiments to understand how tiny changes in prion protein structure affect its ability to cause disease. Researchers found that proteins with flexible loops are more toxic, while those with more rigid structures cause less damage, suggesting new ways to develop treatments by stabilizing the protein’s structure.

Mechanisms of Talaromyces marneffei induced CNS injury: Synergistic roles of tauopathy, pyroptosis, and microglial inflammation

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A dangerous fungus called Talaromyces marneffei can invade the brain and cause serious damage in people with weakened immune systems. The study shows the fungus harms brain cells through two pathways: direct damage to neurons and indirect damage through activation of brain immune cells that release harmful inflammatory chemicals. Understanding these mechanisms could help develop better treatments for this life-threatening infection.

Transcriptional programs mediating neuronal toxicity and altered glial–neuronal signaling in a Drosophila knock-in tauopathy model

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Researchers created a fruit fly model of frontotemporal dementia by editing the tau gene to match a human disease mutation. Using advanced genetic sequencing technology, they analyzed how this mutation affects brain cells, discovering that it disrupts communication between nerve cells and support cells called glia. The study reveals multiple pathways that could be targeted with future treatments to combat this devastating brain disease.

Immunomodulatory natural polysaccharide-based nanoparticles for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

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Scientists are developing tiny particles made from natural sugar-based compounds that can deliver medicine to the brain while reducing inflammation caused by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These nanoparticles are special because they can cross the protective barrier surrounding the brain and carry therapeutic compounds directly to where they’re needed. The natural polysaccharides used to make these particles have built-in anti-inflammatory properties, making them safer and more effective than traditional approaches. This innovative technology shows promise for treating currently difficult-to-manage brain diseases.

The Role of AFB1, OTA, TCNs, and Patulin in Forensic Sciences: Applications in Autopsy, Criminal Investigations, and Public Health Prevention

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This research examines how dangerous fungal poisons (mycotoxins) found in contaminated food can be detected in deceased individuals during autopsies. These toxins, produced by common molds, can cause serious health problems including liver cancer, kidney disease, and immune system damage. The study proposes procedures for forensic investigators to collect and analyze these toxins from body tissues and fluids to help solve cases involving poisoning or chronic toxin exposure.

Three Different Types of β-Glucans Enhance Cognition: The Role of the Gut-Brain Axis

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Researchers tested three types of β-glucans—fiber compounds found in mushrooms, oats, and other foods—to see if they could improve memory in mice. All three types enhanced recognition memory and reduced brain inflammation, while only oat β-glucan significantly changed gut bacteria composition. The findings suggest that different β-glucans may help prevent cognitive decline through different mechanisms involving the gut-brain connection.

Disease: neurodegeneration