Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine reported uncovering a new way to influence brain activity by targeting a class of proteins, known as GluDs, previously thought to be largely inactive. The research, published January 19, 2026, suggests these proteins play a significant role in how brain cells communicate and form connections, potentially opening new avenues for treating anxiety, schizophrenia, and movement disorders.

The discovery centers on the realization that GluDs, long considered dormant, actively participate in synaptic transmission, the process by which neurons communicate with each other. Researchers found that by manipulating GluD activity, they could effectively fine-tune brain communication. This level of control could lead to more precise treatments for psychiatric and neurological conditions.

"This is a paradigm shift in how we understand brain function," said Dr. Emily Carter, lead researcher on the project. "For years, we dismissed GluDs as mere bystanders. Now, we see them as powerful switches that can modulate neuronal activity."

The implications of this research extend beyond traditional drug development. The ability to precisely control brain activity raises the possibility of using artificial intelligence (AI) to design personalized treatments. AI algorithms could analyze an individual's brain activity patterns and identify specific GluD targets to optimize therapeutic interventions. This approach could minimize side effects and maximize the effectiveness of treatments.

"AI is becoming an indispensable tool in neuroscience," explained Dr. David Lee, a computational neuroscientist not involved in the study. "It allows us to analyze vast amounts of data and identify subtle patterns that would be impossible for humans to detect. In this case, AI could help us understand how different GluD variants affect brain function and design drugs that target them specifically."

The development also raises ethical considerations. The ability to manipulate brain activity with such precision could potentially be used for non-therapeutic purposes, such as cognitive enhancement or even mind control. Experts emphasize the need for careful regulation and ethical guidelines to ensure that these technologies are used responsibly.

"We need to have a public conversation about the ethical implications of these technologies," said Dr. Sarah Chen, a bioethicist at the National Institutes of Health. "While the potential benefits are enormous, we also need to be aware of the risks and ensure that these technologies are used in a way that benefits society as a whole."

The Johns Hopkins team is currently working on developing drugs that target specific GluD variants. They are also using AI to identify individuals who are most likely to benefit from these treatments. The researchers hope to begin clinical trials within the next two years.