In a breakthrough that could reshape mental health treatment, researchers at Hungary’s HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine have uncovered a group of brainstem neurons that appear to dial down the brain’s negative emotion center.
“About 25 to 30 percent of the population will experience phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, or anxiety disorders at least once in their lifetime,” explains Dr. Gábor Nyiri, lead investigator on the study. With that in mind, the hunt for more precise therapies is a global priority.
The team stumbled on this discovery while mapping the brainstem. What they found was a distinct green region populated by neurons connecting directly to the lateral habenula—a small but powerful hub that processes pain, rejection, and failure.
In depression sufferers, the lateral habenula often runs in overdrive, amplifying feelings of despair. The newly identified neurons act like a brake, calming this “overactive” region and restoring balance.
By targeting these cells, future treatments could offer more tailored relief for those battling depression, PTSD, and anxiety—shifting away from broad-spectrum drugs toward focused neuromodulation.
It’s a promising step for entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and mental health advocates worldwide. As we peek deeper into the brain’s wiring, personalized therapies may soon move from theory to reality, giving millions a brighter outlook on life.
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Hungarian researchers target brain cells to help treat depression
cgtn.com
