(A) Illustration of myelinated nerve fiber and saltatory conduction of action potential. An example of PNS myelinated nerve fiber is shown. (B) Illustration of transverse section of myelinated axon at ...

Using an innovative approach, scientists have determined the structure of Ltn1, a recently discovered "quality-control" protein that is found in the cells of all plants, fungi and animals. Using an ...

Neurotrophins are secreted growth factors critical for the development and maintenance of the vertebrate nervous system. Neurotrophins activate two types of cell surface receptors, the Trk receptor ...

Organophosphorus nerve agents interfere with cholinergic signaling by covalently binding to the active site of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This inhibition causes an accumulation of the ...

Scientists say they have developed a new nerve-like polymer structure that could lead to better interfaces for prosthetics. In this photo, Nigel Ackland uses his myoelectric hand as he makes a speech ...

Researchers in Germany have discovered previously unknown mutations in autistic and mentally impaired patients in what is known as the SHANK2 gene, a gene that is partially responsible for linking ...

The recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is critical for speech as it provides nerve function to muscles in the larynx, or voice box. People have two RLNs, one on each side of the neck. Instead of ...

Stunning new visuals of the brain reveal a deceptively simple pattern of organization in the wiring of this complex organ. Instead of nerve fibers travelling willy-nilly through the brain like ...

Psychedelic drugs such as LSD and ayahuasca change the structure of nerve cells, causing them to sprout more branches and spines, UC Davis researchers have found. This could help in ...