Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) from the breakdown of plastic materials pollute the environment and make their way into the human body, raising concerns over potential health impacts. Research shows that microplastics and nanoplastics are able to cross the blood-brain barrier in mice within 2 hours of ingestion. Key Facts: Polystyrene nanoparticles with a size of …
Obesity now affects over 650 million adults globally and is a major risk factor for various chronic diseases including cognitive decline and impairment. Recent evidence shows a link between obesity, reduced brain volume and neuronal loss, increased dementia risk, and impaired learning, memory and cognition. Preliminary evidence suggests that weight loss drugs like semaglutide may …
The extreme environment of spaceflight induces a myriad of stresses on astronauts – and these stresses may negatively impact mental health, neuroplasticity, and cognitive abilities. New research offers insight into the neurological mechanisms underlying these effects. Key Facts: Prolonged spaceflight can lead to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline in astronauts. The composite stresses of the …
Parents naturally want to do everything they can to optimize brain development in their children. The first years of life are a critical window when nutrition lays the foundation for lifelong brain health and abilities. A new study shows that an infant formula augmented with certain milk fats and an immune protein offers cognitive advantages …
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a technique utilized to stimulate specific regions of the brain via electromagnetic induction. The regions that receive stimulation typically depend on an individual’s reason for using TMS. For example, individuals using TMS for the treatment of depression may administer electrical pulses to the left prefrontal cortex, while individuals using TMS …
Perhaps you’ve heard of the fictional story “Flowers for Algernon” about a laboratory mouse named Algernon. The mouse undergoes a nootropic-esque surgical procedure that dramatically amplifies his intelligence. The experiment is deemed so successful, that scientists decide to test the procedure in a human character named Charlie Gordon. Prior to the artificial enhancement of Charlie’s …
While people will always be in search of specific diets to help them lose weight, in recent years there is an increasing interest in how certain foods affect the human brain. It is estimated that there are currently over 5 million individuals in the United States that have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and dietary …