01/03/2026
Scientists have made a major breakthrough by identifying specific brain cells that can switch anxiety on and off. This discovery reveals how anxiety is not just an abstract feeling, but a process controlled by precise neural circuits inside the brain.
Researchers found that a distinct group of neurons actively regulates anxious behaviour. When these cells are activated, anxiety levels rise. When they are suppressed, anxiety rapidly decreases. This shows that anxiety can be directly controlled at the cellular level, rather than being an uncontrollable emotional state.
The findings help explain why anxiety disorders can feel overwhelming and persistent. More importantly, they open the door to highly targeted treatments that could calm anxiety without affecting other brain functions, unlike many current medications.
Experts believe this discovery could lead to next-generation therapies that precisely regulate anxiety circuits, offering relief with fewer side effects. Understanding how the brain switches anxiety on and off marks a crucial step toward better mental health care and long-term solutions for anxiety disorders.
