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Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Brain scanning approach shows wiring of depression

By repeatedly scanning the brains of a small group of patients for a year and a half, researchers have identified a distinct pattern of neuronal interactions that appears to predispose some people to developing depression.

Novel immunotherapy improves recovery from spinal cord injury

Researchers have designed, in mice, an approach to minimizing the damage from a spinal cord injury through the use of engineered immune cells. Mice given the treatment had improved recovery from injuries, demonstrating potential for developing the therapy for people.

Epigenetic changes reprogram astrocytes into brain stem cells

Resting brain stem cells hardly differ from normal astrocytes, which support the nerve cells in the brain. How can almost identical cells perform such different functions? The key lies in the methylation of their genetic material, which endowes these special astrocytes with stem cell properties. In mice, the researchers showed that experimentally induced lack of blood supply in the brain epigenetically reprograms astrocytes into brain stem cells, which in turn can give rise to nerve progenitor cells. This discovery shows that astrocytes could potentially be used in regenerative medicine to replace damaged nerve cells.

New NFL helmet accessory reduces concussions − but players and fans may not be ready to embrace safety over swag

Fall brings football season in the U.S. and, with it, the parade of distinctively decorated helmets that the players wear ^[1].

Over time, the shape and size of these helmets have gradually changed, from the leather head coverings ^[2] of the early 20th century to the space-age plastic domes ^[3] we’re accustomed to seeing today.

But the visual profiles of some NFL football helmets may change drastically in 2024. The league has...

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