Studying synapses in live human brains is crucial for understanding many psychiatric disorders. Now, using positron emission tomography of the brain of patients with psychiatric disorders, researchers from Japan have developed and used a novel technology to visualize the distribution of AMPA receptors, one of the most important molecules in synaptic transmission. Their efforts could lead to more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatments for diseases like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism spectrum disorder.

Brain Medicine launches an unprecedented Festschrift series celebrating Dr. Seymour Reichlin's centennial with over ten forthcoming articles from leading researchers. The opening editorial, chronicling his nearly eight decades of contributions to neuroendocrinology, sets the stage for an extensive exploration of how his work continues to influence modern medicine.

In the quest to enhance the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a recent study has identified a pivotal role for CD39 expression in modulating the function of CAR-T cells. The research, conducted by a team of scientists, investigated the impact of CD39 modulation on CAR-T cells, hypothesizing that optimal levels of CD39 could boost the therapeutic potential of these cells against HCC. The study utilized a combination of in vitro and in vivo experiments, including the use of a subcutaneous HCC mouse model, to demonstrate that CAR-T cells with moderate CD39 expression levels displayed superior antitumor activity compared to those with high or low CD39 levels. Furthermore, the study explored the use of mdivi-1, a small molecule inhibitor, to modulate CD39 expression, revealing a synergistic effect when combined with CD39 knockdown that significantly enhanced the antitumor response.

New research has shown that bio-based fibres caused higher mortality, and reduced growth and reproductivity, among earthworms - a species critical to the health of soils globally - than conventional plastics. It has led scientists to suggest that materials being advocated as alternatives to plastic should be tested thoroughly before they are used extensively in a range of products. The study was carried out as part of the BIO-PLASTIC-RISK project, led by researchers at the University of Plymouth and the University of Bath, and supported with £2.6million funding by the Natural Environmental Research Council.

Researchers from Osaka University found that Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs) in the workplace experience significantly higher levels of stress compared to their non-HSP colleagues. Approximately 26% of working adults could be classified as HSPs, indicating that a substantial portion of the workforce might be experiencing higher levels of stress. Interestingly, HSPs also exhibit greater empathy, suggesting that their heightened sensitivity enables them to connect deeply with others, potentially fostering a more supportive work environment.