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Ketamine Increases Amygdala Volume in Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) (2024 MRI Study)

Depression is a complex mental health condition that significantly affects an individual’s emotional and physical well-being. Recent advances in neuroimaging have provided deeper insights into how major depressive disorder (MDD) alters brain structures, particularly the hippocampus and amygdala, and how treatments like ketamine can potentially reverse these changes. A new study using 3T and 7T …

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Saffron Extract (Affron) Reduces Stress via HPA Axis & Neuroplasticity in Rats (2023 Study)

In a world increasingly burdened by the psychological strains of modern living, the quest for effective and safe treatments for stress-related symptoms has never been more urgent. A recent study evaluated the stress-mitigating properties of Affron® – a Saffron extract – in animal models, revealing its potent effects on the body’s stress response systems, including …

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Methylone for Depression & PTSD: Rapid Neuroplastic Effects & More Targeted than MDMA (2024 Study)

In the search for rapid, effective treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the exploration of psychoactive compounds like methylone presents a new frontier. Unlike traditional treatments, methylone has shown promising rapid-acting, robust, and long-lasting antidepressant-like and anxiolytic effects in preclinical studies. By comparing its effects with MDMA, a well-known compound with similar therapeutic potential, researchers …

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GW043 as Rapid Antidepressant: Partial Agonist of NMDA Receptors (2024 Study)

GW043 emerges as a promising new compound in the treatment of depression showcasing rapid and significant antidepressant effects by targeting NMDA receptors (NMDARs). This mechanism offers hope for those suffering from depression and sheds light on the intricate mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis that underpin GW043’s therapeutic benefits. Highlights: GW043’s Mechanism of Action: GW043 …

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Serotonin Transporter Genes (5-HTT) vs. Anxiety / Stress Behaviors & Neuroplasticity in Rats (2024 Study)

In the intricate world of neuropsychiatric research, the role of serotonin in stress-related behaviors and disorders has long been a topic of fascination. Recent studies on rats have shed new light on this area, revealing intriguing ways in which genetics influence anxiety, depression, and neuroplasticity. Highlights: Serotonin Transporter Genes Influence Stress Behaviors: Rats with modified …

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D-Cycloserine Targets the NMDA Receptors to Enhance Synpatic Plasticity in Hippocampus (2024 Study)

In the complex and evolving field of neuroscience, the role of synaptic plasticity in psychiatric disorders has garnered significant attention. d-Cycloserine (DCS), a partial agonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), emerges as a key player in potentially revolutionizing treatment approaches. Highlights: d-Cycloserine (DCS): Initially an antimicrobial agent, DCS is now known for its role as …

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Effects of Spaceflight on Astronauts’ Mental Health: Neuroplasticity Changes & Cognitive Decline

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 …

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