UCSF scientists show how the anti-seizure medication, gabapentin, interacts with ion channels. UCSF researchers discover how gabapentin interacts with calcium channels, opening doors for more effective treatments in epilepsy and Lupus by influencing channel biogenesis.
In a First, UCSF Researchers Have Identified Chronic Pain States in Individuals Directly from Their Neural Activity In a first, researchers have identified chronic pain pathways in individuals directly from their neural activity, showing promising paths forward for treatment.
Symptoms Take Decades to Develop, UCSF-SFVA Led Study Shows Exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE), a chemical found in the air, water, and soil, may increase the risk of Parkinson's disease by 70%, according to a UCSF study. TCE is commonly used today as a degreasing solvent.
Saul Villeda Delivers 2023 Byers Award Lecture on Reversing Aging’s Effects on the Brain Saul Villeda, the 2023 recipient of the Byers Award, delivered a lecture titled "Blood Work and the Brain: Deciphering the Language of Cognitive Rejuvenation." His research focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms behind cognitive decline with age and exploring potential ways to reverse it.
Common and Cheap Epilepsy Drug Stops Tumor Growth in Mice UCSF scientists have found that brain cancer glioblastoma can cause cognitive decline by affecting neural connections, but the epilepsy drug gabapentin shows promise in blocking this activity, offering hope for new treatments.
Spindles May Prompt ‘Emotional Recalibration,’ UCSF-SFVA Led Study Shows Sleep spindles, bursts of brain activity during NREM2 sleep, may regulate anxiety in PTSD, challenging recent studies. Non-invasive therapies could provide relief, such as prescription drugs or electrical brain stimulation. Sleep hygiene is also recommended to maximize the benefit of spindles after a stressful episode.
Ten graduate school finalists competed in this year’s UCSF Grad Slam, in which students present their research in three minutes or less in terms easily understood by a general audience.
How Little-Known Brain Cells Tamp Down Overexcited Neurons During Acute Stress A newly discovered brain circuit recruits brain cells called astrocytes to calm overactive neurons to produce a calming and relaxing effect.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and UCSF will accelerate advanced cell therapies for difficult to treat conditions like cancer from a new manufacturing facility.
American Academy of Neurology to Honor Jon Kleen, MD, PhD Jon Kleen is named the 2023 Dreifuss-Penry Epilepsy Award recipient by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN). He is honored for his contributions to epilepsy treatment.