It is known that fake drugs without active ingredients can improve a person’s condition. This phenomenon is called the placebo effect. In a new study, scientists found the neural pathways that are activated by it. Naked Science.
Scientists have found that when a person expects pain relief from an artificial drug, the anterior cingulate cortex, the area of ​​the brain responsible for emotions, decision-making and pain regulation, is activated. From there, the signal is transmitted to the pons, which connects different parts of the brain and spinal cord. The signal then reaches the cerebellum, which surprised scientists because this part of the brain is known only for its function of coordinating movements.
The scientists then turned off the pathway they found to activate the neurons, which resulted in a reduction in the placebo’s pain-relieving effect.
The scientists’ discovery could form the basis for more effective methods of treating pain. Targeted activation of this pathway could help create painkillers without side effects.
Earlier scientists tested Fecal transplantation in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
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Source: Gazeta
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