National Geographic News - Disease

Brain Region for Overcoming Fear, Anxiety Found

Wed, 9 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Certain brain cells likely control memories that help animals learn not to be afraid, a finding that could lead to new drugs for anxiety disorders, experts say.

Brain's "Core" Revealed by First Hi-Res Wiring Map

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A dense and highly interconnected structure inside the human brain seems to play a vital role in communication within and between the hemispheres, a new study says.

VIDEO: Aussie Platypuses Suffer Illness

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Australian scientists are conducting field studies to track a fungal infection that has been killing Tasmanian platypuses for more than 25 years.

To Save Chocolate, Scientists to Map Cocoa Genome

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

By dissecting the cocoa bean genome, U.S. government scientists backed by a leading candy company aim to safeguard the world's chocolate supply—and possibly make it taste better.

Major Lion Die-Offs Linked to Climate Change

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Extreme droughts and downpours allowed two diseases to converge and wipe out large numbers of African lions in 1994 and 2001, a new study says.

Mosquito Outbreak to Follow Midwest Floods?

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

As floodwaters subside in parts of the Midwest, residents along the Mississippi River are urged to defend themselves against another hazard: mosquitoes bearing West Nile virus.

"Arab" Found in Danish Iron-Age Grave

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

DNA analysis of ancient Danish skeletons, including one with Arabian genes, suggests Scandinavians living 2,000 years ago were more diverse genetically than today, scientists say.

Marijuana Has Anti-Inflammatory That Won't Get You High

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

A substance called (E)-BCP that is a major component in cannabis essential oils could help combat inflammation without affecting the brain, a new study says.

VIDEO: "Mutant" Mosquitoes Created

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

U.K. scientists are genetically modifying mosquitoes to be resistant to malaria, which kills millions annually. But some experts fear these supermosquitoes would upset the ecosystem.

Sea Lion Seizures May Result From Toxic Algae

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 +0000

California sea lion fetuses exposed to toxic algal blooms on the rise may develop seizures and abnormal behavior later in life, a study of lab rodents has found.