A new cell type is implicated in epilepsy caused by traumatic brain injury
Tuesday, March 11, 2014 · Posted by Tufts University
A new study in mice identifies increased levels of a specific neurotransmitter as a contributing factor connecting traumatic brain injury (TBI) to post-traumatic epilepsy. The findings suggest that damage to brain cells called interneurons disrupts neurotransmitter levels and plays a role in the development of epilepsy after a traumatic brain injury.
Scientists Create Most Detailed Picture Ever of Membrane Protein Linked to Learning, Memory, Anxiety, Pain and Brain Disorders
Thursday, March 6, 2014 · Posted by The Scripps Research Institute
Researchers at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) and Vanderbilt University have created the most detailed 3-D picture yet of a membrane protein that is linked to learning, memory, anxiety, pain and brain disorders such as schizophrenia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and autism. The mGlu1 receptor structure now provides a solid platform for much more reliable modeling of closely related receptors, some of which are equally important in drug discovery.
Jackson Laboratory researchers provide definitive proof for receptor’s role in synapse development
Monday, December 31, 2012 · Posted by Jackson Laboratory
Jackson Laboratory researchers led by Associate Professor Zhong-wei Zhang, Ph.D., have provided direct evidence that a specific neurotransmitter receptor is vital to the process of pruning synapses in the brains of newborn mammals.