How molecules can ‘remember’ and contribute to memory and learning

Researchers have discovered how an ion channel in the brain’s neurons has a kind of “molecular memory,” which contributes to the formation and preservation of lifelong memories. The researchers have identified a specific part of the ion channel at which new drugs for certain genetic diseases could be targeted. The study, led by Linköping University in Sweden, has been published in Nature Communications.

A clearer look at diabetic kidney disease via new optical imaging technology

Scientists from the University of California San Diego and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have developed a powerful new way to look inside kidney tissues—without needing to stain or damage the tissue samples. The new technique, called label-free multimodal optical biopsy, captures detailed, 3D images of kidney samples and reveals early signs of disease often missed by traditional methods.

AI chatbots miss key signs of psychiatric drug reactions, lag behind expert advice

Asking artificial intelligence for advice can be tempting. Powered by large language models (LLMs), AI chatbots are available 24/7, are often free to use, and draw on troves of data to answer questions. Now, people with mental health conditions are asking AI for advice when experiencing potential side effects of psychiatric medicines—a decidedly higher-risk situation than asking it to summarize a report.