Israeli scientists have discovered something super intriguing! 🧐 Ever wondered how a bad experience changes the way we react to the world? Well, mice might have some answers for us. 🐭💡
In a recent study published in Nature Communications, researchers from the University of Haifa found that after experiencing a traumatic event, mice started seeing harmless things as threatening and began escaping from them more quickly. 😱🏃♂️
So, what's happening inside those tiny mouse brains? 🧠✨ Using some cool light tech to control neurons (yes, like Jedi mind tricks but for science!), the team discovered changes in specific brain cells in the superior colliculus (SC). These neurons are like the brain's escape buttons! 🚨
But wait, there's more! The SC neurons get messages from other neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), which can tell the mice when to escape. After a bad experience, these mPFC neurons become extra jumpy, making the mice more likely to run away even when there's no real danger. 🏃♀️💨
This finding is a big deal because it helps us understand how trauma can change brains—not just in mice, but maybe in humans too! It could lead to better ways to diagnose and treat people who've been through tough times. 🌟❤️
Who knew mice could teach us so much about ourselves? Pretty mind-blowing stuff, huh? 🤯
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
