Researchers induced a hibernation-like state in mice by using ultrasound to stimulate the hypothalamus preoptic area in the brain, which helps to regulate body temperature and metabolism. The findings show the first noninvasive and safe method to induce such a state; a similar condition has been previously proposed for spaceflight or for patients with life-threatening health conditions.
A groundbreaking study published in Nature Metabolism has unveiled a noninvasive and safe method to induce a torpor-like state in mice and rats. Led by
Some mammals and birds have a clever way to preserve energy and heat by going into torpor, during which their body temperature and metabolic rate drop. Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis safely and noninvasively induced a torpor-like state in mice and rats by using ultrasound to stimulate the hypothalamus preoptic area in the brain.
Salk scientists have uncovered a molecular pathway that distills threatening sights, sounds and smells into a single message: Be afraid. A molecule called
UW researchers think a fish might be the answer to treating mood disorders, addiction By Amanda Zhou, The Seattle Times
Published: May 14, 2021, 8:10am
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University of Washington researchers are studying how to control the brain. They might have found the answer in an eel-like fish.
In a paper published in May, researchers at UW Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis and other institutions say they have successfully used a protein called parapinopsin to manipulate neurons and certain neurotransmitters.
The protein comes from a lamprey a type of jawless fish similar to an eel and researchers hope it could eventually be used to treat mood disorders, addiction, depression and even pain.