The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication network between the central nervous system (CNS) and the enteric nervous system, linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. Both neural and hormonal routes of communication allow the brain to influence intestinal activities, including activity of functional effectorRead
The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis, or HPA Axis, is a bidirectional neuroendocrine network that modulates our adaptive stress response. The activation loop begins in the hypothalamus with corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Once released, CRH binds to receptors on the anterior pituitary gland resulting in the subsequent release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). In turn,Read
The Mindful Microbiota Trillions of microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, and others—create the microbiota. The vast majority, around 70%, of these bugs reside in our intestines and are vital to the development of our immune system, influence our metabolism, and protect us from pathogens. Interestingly, the gut microbiota also affects our cognitiveRead
Getting and staying motivated is hard for many people. In fact, it is such a frequent problem that scientists have invested much time and research into the topic. Now, a new study in the journal eLife reveals that motivation is influenced by oxidative stress in the brain. And, according toRead
People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced better sleep, a reduction in the severity of symptoms, and more effective treatments after exposure to blue light therapy, according to a new study in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience. Sleep is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health, and over time, inadequate sleepRead
The phrase ‘mood foods’ is taking on a whole new meaning. When it comes to warding off depression and anxiety, it might not be what you eat so much as when you eat it. A new study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a member of the Mass General Brigham healthcareRead
A major review, recently published in Molecular Psychiatry, is sending shock waves throughout the medical community. The big reveal is that serotonin may not be the cause of depression. Researchers from he University College of London (UCL) conducted an exhaustive overview of serotonin and depression. Their conclusion is that depression is notRead
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