Month: June 2025

Crustacean Neurobiology 101: A Primer Crustacean nervous systems are compact yet sophisticated. Key structures include: Giant axons: Enabling rapid escape responses (e.g., crayfish tail-flips). Stomatogastric ganglion: A model for studying rhythmic motor patterns like digestion. Chordotonal organs: Sensory receptors critical for proprioception . Table 1: Crustacean vs. Vertebrate Neural Features…

From Inflammation to Neurodegeneration In RRMS, immune cells attack myelin—the protective sheath around nerves—causing reversible damage. Progressive MS, however, involves a “quiet” cascade: Chronic oxidative stress damages mitochondria, starving neurons of energy . Microglia and astrocytes (the brain’s immune cells) become toxic, secreting molecules that harm synapses and axons ….

Designing Molecular Cages Metal-Organic Cages (MOCs): Built from metal ions and organic linkers, these cages excel in separating gases or pollutants. A 2021 study used MOCs to selectively capture CO₂ from industrial emissions . NHC-Based Cages: These leverage strong metal-carbene bonds for robust catalytic frameworks. Recent designs enable precise control…

The Neuron-Astrocyte Metabolic Tango The glutamate-glutamine cycle is a tightly choreographed dance between neurons and astrocytes (star-shaped glial cells). Here’s how it works: Glutamate Release: Neurons release glutamate to send signals across synapses. Astrocyte Uptake: Astrocytes soak up excess glutamate to prevent toxic overstimulation . Conversion to Glutamine: Using the…

Glia: The Unsung Heroes of Neural Maintenance A 2024 study found that astrocyte-like glia secrete factors critical for neuronal survival. When these glia were genetically ablated, X-gal staining revealed a cascade of neuronal death, mimicking neurodegenerative diseases . Fas3: A Molecular Glue for Adult Neurons The cell adhesion molecule Fas3,…