sensory biology, neuroscience

For the first time, a team visualizes sensory nerves projecting into adipose tissue in mice and finds these neuronal cells may counteract the local effects of the sympathetic nervous system.

A previously overlooked protein is important to this type of itch, an insight that could aid the development of new treatments.

Researchers also find that the thickness of the brain region representing clitoral stimulation is associated with intercourse frequency.

In Chapter 1, “On Being,” author Antonio Damasio outlines the dawn of consciousness.

David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian won this year’s Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their research on the ion channels involved in perceiving heat, cold, pain, and touch.

The Columbia University neuroscientist researches the biology behind some of our most human experiences, including building family relationships. 

Spontaneous waves of nerve impulses flowing across the retina help mouse pups practice motion detection for when they eventually open their eyes.

The roundworm uses cues from visible light to help avoid eating toxic bacteria with a distinguishing hue.

Neurological representations of different tastes—like those of different smells but unlike those of sight, hearing, and touch—do not cluster in distinct spots within a murine brain region, a study shows.

Take a break from the bench to puzzle and peruse.

Using optogenetics, scientists have simulated the sense of smell directly within the mouse brain to investigate the nature of olfactory perception.

A major sensory neuron in roundworms distinguishes proprioception from harmful touch by sending out local or whole-cell signals, respectively.

A study identifies five women who have a functioning sense of smell despite an apparent lack of olfactory bulbs—the region of the brain that processes odors.

Hear the muted symphony that one researcher thinks might be a close approximation to how macaques perceive the performance.

Neural networks generate abstract images designed to activate particular cells, lending insight into their function.

A study of people’s brainwaves hints at their unconscious ability to perceive the Earth’s magnetic field.

Authors of a small study say the two abilities likely evolved in tandem.

A whole-genome analysis of people who experience color when they listen to sounds points to a handful of genes involved in neural development.

Researchers aim for a routine screen to detect the neurodegenerative disease—decades before symptoms appear.