Defeating Fear Depends on Amygdala Suppression
Sukanya Charuchandra | Nov 1, 2018
Researchers determine the neurological mechanics underpinning a technique to extinguish fearful memories using goal-directed eye movements.
Karaoke-Sleep Study Links Disrupted REM With Poor Memory Processing
Karaoke-Sleep Study Links Disrupted REM With Poor Memory Processing
An unusual experiment suggests that interrupted REM sleep can interfere with the amygdala’s ability to process emotional memories overnight—in this case, the distressing memories of listening to oneself sing out of tune.
An unusual experiment suggests that interrupted REM sleep can interfere with the amygdala’s ability to process emotional memories overnight—in this case, the distressing memories of listening to oneself sing out of tune.
Distinct Regions Drive Responses to Anxiety, Fear
Catherine Offord | Jan 1, 2018
Researchers map brain activity associated with a person’s anticipation of or direct confrontation with danger.
Infographic: Anticipation Versus Confrontation
Catherine Offord | Dec 31, 2017
The brain is activated differently when it’s contemplating, rather than directly facing, a threat.
Contributors
Jef Akst and Bob Grant | Nov 1, 2017
Meet some of the people featured in the November 2017 issue of The Scientist.
Image of the Day: Fear Center
The Scientist Staff, The Scientist Staff | Oct 26, 2017
A set of neurons in the brain’s central amygdala plays a key role in forming memories of aversive experiences, scientists find in mice.
The Cellular Hallmarks of Consciousness
Anna Azvolinsky | Sep 21, 2017
Recording from single neurons of epilepsy patients, neuroscientists show that both the strength and timing of neuronal firing are important to consciously perceive a visual object.
Scientists Activate Predatory Instinct in Mice
Diana Kwon | Jan 16, 2017
A new study reveals how the amygdala is involved in controlling predatory behavior in mice.
Lying Repetitively Linked to Decreased Amygdala Activity
Kerry Grens | Oct 25, 2016
As people continue to tell tall tales, fMRI data show certain brain regions become less busy.
Why Screams Scare Us
Jef Akst | Jul 20, 2015
Analyzing the acoustical qualities of screams and other sounds, researchers pinpoint why people find screams—and emergency vehicle sirens—frightening.