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In mice, a subset of neurons in the dorsomedial hypothalamus control sympathetic nervous system signalling to adipose tissue and are dysregulated with age; activating these neurons prolongs lifespan and slows the decline in physical activity associated with ageing.
A study analyses the nanotopography of presynaptic calcium channels and release sensors and the degree of their coupling during maturation of an inhibitory synapse.
A study in mice identifies formin 2 as a regulator of axon regeneration and a potential target for promoting nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury.
Exposure to acute and long-term exposure to cold temperatures results in the activation of thermoregulatory mechanisms that are under CNS control. In this Review, Mota and Madden discuss long-term physiological adaptations to cold exposure, with an emphasis on the specific states of hibernation, torpor and obesity.
A direct influence of light exposure on cognition and behaviour, beyond that associated with circadian rhythms, has been reported. Mahoney and Schmidt consider the evidence for light’s effects on aspects of cognitive neurobehavioural performance, summarize current understanding of the underlying cellular and circuit mechanisms and point to future directions for this field of research.
During adolescence, we acquire skills and behavioural patterns that support our future survival through goal-directed learning. Wilbrecht and Davidow describe the neural and cognitive systems that support goal-directed learning in adolescence, as well as our growing understanding of the influence of context on this process.
Animals frequently engage in curiosity-related behaviours that appear to provide them with no immediate benefits. Monosov discusses the neural circuits in the primate brain that are involved in these non-instrumental information-seeking behaviours, focusing on those that mediate the exploration of novel objects and the pursuit of information to reduce future uncertainties.
