City rats are among the most despised creatures. But we actually fear disease when we see them and there is a good reason for that. Rats carry a rich combination of viruses and bacteria that may even be fatal in some cases. What pathogens the New York City rats carry around is a question that drove researchers from Columbia University to catch a couple of them for science. The team was led by … [Read more...]
Rats Experience Regret for Wrong Choices like Humans – Study
Regretting for an inappropriate decision is no longer an exclusive behavioural attribute of humans. Recent study states that even rats do feel regret when they go for wrong choices or inappropriate actions. Simply, rats too feel sorry just like humans. Health Centre at University of Minnesota conducted an interesting experiment and named it as “Restaurant Row”. They have made four model … [Read more...]
Alzheimer’s Treatment – Scientists erase, restore memories in Rats
In first of its kind of study, the researchers have successfully stimulated key nerve connections in the brains of rats using light. This has allowed them to erase certain memories and then restore them with a second type of light. Lead researcher Dr. Roberto Malinow of the University of California-San Diego, said, “The study is the first to show evidence that strengthened connections between … [Read more...]