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Chemogenetic Regulation in Reprogrammed Stem Cell-derived Precursor Cells in Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases
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[Neuroenhancement].

G Gründer1, T Bartsch

  • 1Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland, ggruender@ukaachen.de.

Der Nervenarzt
|November 19, 2014
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Pharmacological cognitive enhancement is possible with common substances like caffeine and nicotine, but its effectiveness is genetically influenced. Neuroscientists must engage in public discourse on neuroenhancement to guide societal understanding and decisions.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology

Context:

  • Cognitive enhancement, or neuroenhancement, involves improving cognitive functions using drugs or brain stimulation.
  • Methods like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are explored alongside pharmacological approaches.

Purpose:

  • This article reviews the potential of pharmacological cognitive enhancement using common substances.
  • It examines studies on the cognitive effects of caffeine, nicotine, stimulants (e.g., modafinil), and acetylcholine esterase inhibitors in healthy individuals.

Summary:

  • Pharmacological enhancement of cognitive performance is achievable with various compounds.
  • The degree of enhancement is significantly influenced by individual genetic makeup, with specific polymorphisms playing a key role.
  • Caffeine and nicotine are widely used for cognitive enhancement, often without users explicitly intending to enhance cognition.

Impact:

  • Clinical neuroscientists are urged to increase their involvement in public discussions surrounding cognitive enhancement.
  • This engagement is crucial for influencing public opinion and decision-making processes related to neuroenhancement technologies and their societal implications.