Depressed mice successfully treated with smart contact lenses that zap their brains: New study

medicalxpress - Scientists in South Korea have developed experimental contact lenses designed to send electrical signals through the retina and into brain regions linked to mood. In mice, the technology appeared to improve depression-like behavior.

AI Summary: Preclinical studies report smart contact lenses that deliver tiny electrical signals can reduce depressive-like behaviors in mice, matching effects seen with standard antidepressants. Researchers caution the work is early — promising biologically, but still a long way from fashionable therapeutic eyewear for humans — and will require safety, dosing and translational studies before any clinic-ready hype.

Sleep and diet may matter more than exercise for buffering the health toll of chronic stress

Nick Turner, Professor and Future Fund Chair in Leadership, Haskayne School of Business, University / theconversation - A 10-year study of nearly 3,000 Canadian workers finds that sleep quality and diet do more to protect health under chronic work stress than exercise.

AI Summary: New research suggests sleep quality and dietary patterns buffer the physiological harms of chronic stress more effectively than exercise alone. The findings point to prioritizing sleep and nutrition in stress mitigation programs and clinical advice, reminding clinicians and patients that the obvious — rest and real food — still matter more than the latest workout trend.