Inositol (cyclohexane-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexol) is a non-essential nutrient synthesized within the body from glucose and is abundant within spinal fluid. Although inositol exists in the form of 9 distinct stereoisomers, the most abundant format within cellular membranes is myo-inositol, accounting for approximately 95% of free inositol within the body. Myo-inositol was initially isolated by researchers in 1849, …
TMS (Transcranial magnetic stimulation) is considered a non-invasive neurostimulation procedure aimed at normalizing brain activity among those with abnormal neurological function. Individuals diagnosed with psychiatric conditions (e.g. depression) may turn to TMS for relief if standard first-line pharmacological options fail to ameliorate symptoms. A TMS device works by using pulsed magnetic fields to generate low-grade electrical currents. …
People with lifelong anxiety disorders often have genetic polymorphisms that cause abnormal activation of various neural circuitry and changes in neurotransmission, provoking excessive fear. While fear in appropriate situations such as getting attacked by a lion is beneficial in that it helps us survive by giving us superhuman abilities (e.g. endurance, strength, thinking), many people …
Michigan State University (MSU) researchers recently published new data in the journal “Science” providing a first ever look at the crystallized structure of translocator protein (TSPO) (18kDa). Translocator protein is located within the outer portion of the mitochondrial membrane. Its primary function is to transport cholesterol within mitochondria, which then is utilized to produce steroids. TSPO …
Anxiety can be caused by a variety of different things. For one individual, the cause may be from genetics – this is often the case among individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders. For another person, the cause of anxiety may be a demanding job or abusive relationship. In each individual scenario, it can …
Beta blockers are drugs that act on “beta receptors” within tissues of the sympathetic nervous system to inhibit stimulatory hormones such as epinephrine and norepinephrine. Medically they are utilized primarily to help manage cardiac arrhythmias, prevent heart attacks, and reduce blood pressure. The first effective beta blockers were documented in the early 1960s as a …
A panic attack is defined as a sudden (or unexpected) surge of anxiety or fear. During this surge of fear, a person typically experiences a combination of cognitive and physical symptoms related to severe anxiety. These symptoms can include things like: fear of losing control, palpitations, hyperventilation, chest pain, and sweating. The experience may become …