07-21-2008, 12:46 PM
By Rupert Neate
Last Updated: 6:01pm BST 16/07/2008
Scientists have discovered why people sometimes need to re-read a page. According to a study the brain needs a specific chemical in order to concentrate properly.
The researchers found brain cells need the neurochemical called acetylcholine to send signals around the nervous system. When it is not present it causes lapses in concentration.
The research will help scientists unlock the secrets of how the brain works, and could provide a significant breakthrough in the development of treatments for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and attention deficit disorder.
Scientists at Newcastle University and University College London found Macaque monkeys paid better attention to tasks when the chemical was present.
Professor Alex Thiele, who led the research, said: "For the first time we have been able to precisely identify the mechanism by which the brain implements a state of attention and increases awareness for important tasks.
"Our research shows that for us to have full attention and awareness the neurons and specific receptors in the brain require a dose of acetylcholine to get them into the correct state. When this happens correctly the brain has higher levels of attention."
The research could have important implications in the treatment of neurological conditions associated with awareness and attention. Prof Thiele said: "If these mechanisms are not working properly then, most of the time, it means we have to re-read an article or we will miss something.
"Many of these processes in the brain have a role in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, attention deficit disorders and other attention deficits. It will require more research but I hope that this work might be able to help sufferers in the future."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=&xml=/earth/2008/07/16/sciread116.xml
Last Updated: 6:01pm BST 16/07/2008
Scientists have discovered why people sometimes need to re-read a page. According to a study the brain needs a specific chemical in order to concentrate properly.
The researchers found brain cells need the neurochemical called acetylcholine to send signals around the nervous system. When it is not present it causes lapses in concentration.
The research will help scientists unlock the secrets of how the brain works, and could provide a significant breakthrough in the development of treatments for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and attention deficit disorder.
Scientists at Newcastle University and University College London found Macaque monkeys paid better attention to tasks when the chemical was present.
Professor Alex Thiele, who led the research, said: "For the first time we have been able to precisely identify the mechanism by which the brain implements a state of attention and increases awareness for important tasks.
"Our research shows that for us to have full attention and awareness the neurons and specific receptors in the brain require a dose of acetylcholine to get them into the correct state. When this happens correctly the brain has higher levels of attention."
The research could have important implications in the treatment of neurological conditions associated with awareness and attention. Prof Thiele said: "If these mechanisms are not working properly then, most of the time, it means we have to re-read an article or we will miss something.
"Many of these processes in the brain have a role in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, attention deficit disorders and other attention deficits. It will require more research but I hope that this work might be able to help sufferers in the future."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=&xml=/earth/2008/07/16/sciread116.xml
