Researchers identified 34 distinct subtypes of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region crucial for reward and addiction. This discovery challenges previous views of MSNs as a homogeneous group, revealing a complex diversity with potential implications for understanding addiction and developing targeted therapies. The study suggests these findings may be conserved across species, offering insights into human brain function.

Researchers developed a rapid, noninvasive tool called CaST that tracks neurons and biomolecules activated by psychedelic drugs. This new method allows researchers to observe the cellular processes responsible for the neuroplastic effects of psychedelics, offering insights into treatments for brain disorders like depression and PTSD.

A new study reveals that specific neurons in the brain's zona incerta (ZI) are crucial for early social interactions between infants and their mothers. These neurons, which express somatostatin, help build the maternal bond and reduce stress in infants. Interestingly, the same neurons increase anxiety and fear responses in adult mice. This discovery highlights the ZI's role in infant development and its potential adaptation over time.

A study shows that by age three, children can understand others' intentions using active mirror neurons. This discovery highlights the early development of the "resonance" system, crucial for social cognition. Researchers found that preschoolers' mylohyoid muscle activates when anticipating goal-directed actions. These findings could aid early diagnosis of conditions like autism spectrum disorder.