Ancient Brain Circuit Acts as an Attention Switch, Potential ADHD Clue
TL;DR Summary
Johns Hopkins researchers identified an evolutionarily ancient cluster of inhibitory neurons (the PLTi) in mice that act as an attention switch by modulating the midbrain’s superior colliculus. Silencing these neurons makes mice hyper-distractible, while reactivating them restores focus, suggesting a conserved mechanism for selective spatial attention that could inform human ADHD research, though further studies are needed.
- Scientists Find Hidden 'Focus Switch' in The Brain – And It May Hold Clues to ADHD ScienceAlert
- Scientists discover ancient brain cells that help block distractions ScienceDaily
- Scientists discover ancient neurons that control attention Johns Hopkins University
- Scientists identify an ancient brainstem network that acts as an attentional selection engine PsyPost
- What if the secret to beating distraction has been hidden in the brainstem all along? A new study offers h The Economic Times
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