Archived Intelligence

1 January 2026

Lead StoryNeuroscience
rewriting Reality: New Clues on REM Sleep and Memory Consolidation

rewriting Reality: New Clues on REM Sleep and Memory Consolidation

A new fMRI study suggests that REM sleep helps the brain separate memories after a prediction error, preventing future mistakes. This neural differentiation was observed specifically in the hippocampus of participants who achieved rapid eye movement sleep.

Full Report

Image for Astrocytes and Memory: ATRX Deletion Disrupts Long-Term Recall
Neuroscience

Astrocytes and Memory: ATRX Deletion Disrupts Long-Term Recall

Removing the ATRX protein from murine astrocytes causes deficits in long-term spatial memory while leaving short-term cognition intact. This deletion alters hippocampal gene expression and increases neuronal excitability, proving that glial epigenetic regulation is vital for synaptic maintenance.

Image for Songbirds, Syntax, and Epigenetics in Brain Development
Genetics & Molecular Biology

Songbirds, Syntax, and Epigenetics in Brain Development

Researchers mapped chemical markers on the DNA of zebra finches to understand how the brain changes during critical learning windows. They found that age and sex drive distinct patterns of gene accessibility, linking biological mechanisms to the ability to learn songs.

Image for Rogue Astrocytes and the Origins of Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Neuroscience

Rogue Astrocytes and the Origins of Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy

Researchers have identified a protein, Igfbp2, that transforms brain support cells from caretakers into seizure promoters. This discovery in mice offers a fresh target for treating drug-resistant forms of epilepsy.

Image for Precision Nutrition: Addressing the 30% Failure Rate in Diabetes Prevention
Medicine & Health

Precision Nutrition: Addressing the 30% Failure Rate in Diabetes Prevention

Standard dietary advice fails nearly one-third of patients at risk for type 2 diabetes. This review evaluates how biologically specific dietary interventions outperform generic advice for metabolic health.

Image for The Price of Wakefulness: Analysing Modafinil Side Effects Across Patient Groups
Medicine & Health

The Price of Wakefulness: Analysing Modafinil Side Effects Across Patient Groups

A systematic review of 54 studies reveals that the adverse risks of Modafinil vary significantly depending on the underlying condition. While insomnia and anxiety are common, physical symptoms like nausea and appetite loss spike disproportionately in specific patient populations.

Image for Does Bitter Taste Sensitivity and Obesity Correlate? The Data Says No
Medicine & Health

Does Bitter Taste Sensitivity and Obesity Correlate? The Data Says No

A systematic review of 27 studies establishes no significant association between bitter taste perception and overall weight status in adults. While general BMI appears unaffected, secondary analysis suggests a potential interaction with body fat distribution.

Image for Trypanosoma cruzi: A New Approach to Genome GC Content Analysis
Genetics & Molecular Biology

Trypanosoma cruzi: A New Approach to Genome GC Content Analysis

Researchers have developed a computational tool called GCanner to map distinct regions within parasite DNA. This software differentiates between stable genetic cores and the chaotic, adaptable sections used to interact with hosts.

Daily Briefing: 1 January 2026 | The Synaptic Report