Mice are amazing little creatures. You might not think so if one is running around your home or business, but we do learn a great deal about them in the world of science.
The Feel Good Mice
In some of the latest research from the University of California, researchers have discovered that mice have spontaneous impulses of dopamine in their brain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter within our brain that makes us all feel so good. What’s more, is that this study also found that mice can manipulate dopamine pulses (willingly) for a reward. The study showed that not only were mice aware of their ability to feel these dopamine pulses but that they learned to anticipate them as well. This showed researchers that there may be something between spontaneous dopamine impulses and cognitive events within the realm of behavioral planning. This means a whole new area of brain dynamics and dopamine opens up for studies.
A recent study from the University of Cambridge showed that scientists have been able to reverse age-related memory loss in mice. Due to changes in the extracellular matrix of the brain, memory loss from aging happens. With this new research, however, it could be possible to reverse it using genetic treatments. This all boils down to PNNs (perineuronal nets) in neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to learn, adapt and make memories. They are cartilage-like structures that surround inhibitory neurons that are located in the brain.
PNNs contain compounds that are called chondroitin sulfates. A particular sulfate known as chondroitin 4-sulfate can inhibit neuroplasticity and the action of the networks within the brain while other sulfates like chondroitin 6-sulfate promote neuroplasticity. Aging causes these compounds to change and for chondroitin 6-sulfate to decrease which hinders the ability to create new memories and learn.
With this new study, researchers tested a virus with the ability to reconstitute the amount of chondroitin 6-sulfate to the PNNs on mice and learned that in doing this, it completely restored memory within older mice. This is exciting and breakthrough news for medical conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Mice are amazing little creatures who we learn so much about ourselves due to researching these little guys. However, we don’t want them in our homes because while they are amazing, they can also carry disease. If you have mice in your home, call Wildout Animal and Pest Removal. Not only will they provide your home with a free thorough inspection, but they will also take care of all your pest control needs. Call today to learn more! 844-945-3688