Svend Davanger

• Monteiro-Cardoso, Vera F.; Yeo, Xin Yi; Bae, Han-Gyu; Mayan, David Castano; Wehbe, Mariam & Lee, Sejin [Show all 27 contributors for this article] (2025). The bile acid chenodeoxycholic acid associates with reduced stroke in humans and mice. Journal of Lipid Research. ISSN 0022-2275. 66(1). doi: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100712. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Bile acids are liver-derived signaling molecules that can be found in the brain, but their role there remains largely unknown. We found increased brain chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) in mice with absent 12α-hydroxylase (Cyp8b1), a bile acid synthesis enzyme. In these Cyp8b1−/−, and in Wt mice administered CDCA, stroke infarct area was reduced. Elevated glutamate-induced excitotoxicity mediated by aberrant N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) overactivation contributes to neuronal death in ischemic stroke. We found reduced glutamate-induced excitotoxicity in neurons from Cyp8b1−/− and CDCA-treated Wt mice. CDCA decreased NMDAR-mediated excitatory post-synaptic currents by reducing over-activation of NMDAR subunit GluN2B in Wt brains. Synaptic NMDAR activity was also decreased in Cyp8b1−/− brains. Expression and synaptic distribution of GluN2B were unaltered in Cyp8b1−/− mice, suggesting CDCA may directly antagonize GluN2B-containing NMDARs. Supporting our findings, in a case-control cohort of acute ischemic stroke patients, we found lower circulatory CDCA. Together, our data suggest that CDCA, acting in the liver-brain axis, decreases GluN2B-containing NMDAR overactivation, contributing to neuroprotection in stroke.

• Ganesan, Saampras; Barrios, Fernando A.; Batta, Ishaan; Bauer, Clemens C.C.; Braver, Todd S. & Brewer, Judson A. [Show all 58 contributors for this article] (2025). ENIGMA-Meditation: Worldwide Consortium for Neuroscientific Investigations of Meditation Practices. Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging. ISSN 2451-9022. 10(4), p. 425–436. doi: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.10.015. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman & Davanger, Svend (2023). SNARE protein VAMP-2, but not syntaxin-1, SNAP-25 and synaptotagmin 1, expressed in perisynaptic astrocytic processes in the CA1 area of the rat hippocampus. NeuroReport. ISSN 0959-4965. 34(2), p. 75–80. doi: 10.1097/WNR.0000000000001861. Full text in Research Archive
• Ringsevjen, Håvard; Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Bieler, Malte; Davanger, Svend & Hussain, Suleman (2023). Activity-regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein (Arc) in presynaptic terminals and extracellular vesicles in hippocampal synapses. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. 16. doi: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1225533. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc/Arg3.1) is a neuron-specific immediate early gene (IEG) product. The protein regulates synaptic strength through modulation of spine density and morphology, AMPA receptor endocytosis, and as being part of a retrovirus-like inter-cellular communication mechanism. However, little is known about the detailed subsynaptic localization of the protein, and especially its possible presynaptic localization. In the present study, we provide novel electron microscopical data of Arc localization at hippocampal Schaffer collateral synapses in the CA1 region. The protein was found in both pre-and postsynaptic cytoplasm in a majority of synapses, associated with small vesicles. We also observed multivesicular body-like structures positive for Arc. Furthermore, the protein was located over the presynaptic active zone and the postsynaptic density. The relative concentration of Arc was 25% higher in the postsynaptic spine than in the presynaptic terminal. Notably, small extracellular vesicles labeled for Arc were detected in the synaptic cleft or close to the synapse, supporting a possible transsynaptic transmission of the protein in the brain.

• Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Hussain, Suleman; Lai, Yi-Chen; Anderson, Anne E. & Davanger, Svend (2023). Synapse-specific changes in Arc and BDNF in rat hippocampus following chronic temporal lobe epilepsy. Neuroscience research. ISSN 0168-0102. 191, p. 1–12. doi: 10.1016/j.neures.2022.12.006. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Expression of immediate early genes (IEGs) in the brain is important for synaptic plasticity, and probably also in neurodegenerative conditions. To understand the cellular mechanisms of the underlying neuropathophysiological processes in epilepsy, we need to pinpoint changes in concentration of synaptic plasticity-related proteins at subsynaptic levels. In this study, we examined changes in synaptic expression of Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated (Arc) and Brai Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in a rat model of kainate-induced temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Western blotting showed reduced concentrations of Arc and increased concentrations of BDNF in hippocampal synaptosomes in chronic TLE rats. Then, using quantitative electron microscopy, we found corresponding changes in subsynaptic regions in the hippocampus. Specifically, we detected significant reductions in the concentrations of Arc in the presynaptic terminal of Schaffer collateral glutamatergic synapses in the stratum radiatum of the CA1 area in TLE, as well as in their adjacent postsynaptic spines. In CA3, there was a significant reduction of Arc only in the presynaptic terminal cytoplasm. Conversely, in CA3, there was a significant increase in the expression of BDNF in the presynaptic terminal, but not in the postsynaptic spine. Significant increase in BDNF concentration in the CA1 postsynaptic density was also obtained. We hypothesize that the observed changes in Arc and BDNF may contribute to both cognitive impairment and increased excitotoxic vulnerability in chronic epilepsy.

• Bieler, Malte; Hussain, Suleman; Daaland, Elise; Mirrione, Martine M.; Henn, Fritz A. & Davanger, Svend (2021). Changes in concentrations of NMDA receptor subunit GluN2B, Arc and syntaxin-1 in dorsal hippocampus Schaffer collateral synapses in a rat learned helplessness model of depression. Journal of Comparative Neurology. ISSN 0021-9967. 529(12), p. 3194–3205. doi: 10.1002/cne.25155. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Major depressive disorder involves changes in synaptic structure and function, but the molecular underpinnings of these changes are still not established. In an initial pilot experiment, whole-brain synaptosome screening with quantitative western blotting was performed to identify synaptic proteins that may show concentration changes in a congenital rat learned helplessness model of depression. We found that the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits GluN2A/GluN2B, activityregulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc) and syntaxin-1 showed significant concentration differences between congenitally learned helpless (LH) and nonlearned helpless (NLH) rats. Having identified these three proteins, we then performed more elaborate quantitative immunogold electron microscopic analyses of the proteins in a specific synapse type in the dorsal hippocampus: the Schaffer collateral synapse in the CA1 region. We expanded the setup to include also unstressed wild-type (WT) rats. The concentrations of the proteins in the LH and NLH groups were compared to WT animals. In this specific synapse, we found that the concentration of NMDARs was increased in postsynaptic spines in both LH and NLH rats. The concentration of Arc was significantly increased in postsynaptic densities in LH animals as well as in presynaptic cytoplasm of NLH rats. The concentration of syntaxin-1 was significantly increased in both presynaptic terminals and postsynaptic spines in LH animals, while pre- and postsynaptic syntaxin-1 concentrations were significantly decreased in NLH animals. These protein changes suggest pathways by which synaptic plasticity may be increased in dorsal hippocampal Schaffer collateral synapses during depression, corresponding to decreased synaptic stability.

• Aryal, Sanjay; Hussain, Suleman; Drevon, Christian A; Nagelhus, Erlend Arnulf; Hvalby, Øyvind & Jensen, Vidar [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2019). Omega-3 fatty acids regulate plasticity in distinct hippocampal glutamatergic synapses. European Journal of Neuroscience. ISSN 0953-816X. 49(1), p. 40–50. doi: 10.1111/ejn.14224. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman; Fredriksen, Irene; Ringsevjen, Håvard; Kavalali, Ege T. & Davanger, Svend (2019). Antibodies raised against aldehyde-fixed antigens improve sensitivity for postembedding electron microscopy. Journal of Neuroscience Methods. ISSN 0165-0270. 317, p. 1–10. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2019.01.015. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Antibodies are one of the most important tools in biological research. High specificity and sensitivity of antibodies are crucial to obtain reliable results. Tissue fixed with glutaraldehyde (GA) is commonly used in electron microscopical investigations. The fixation and embedding routine in preparation of tissue for post-embedding electron microscopy (EM) will mask and structurally alter epitopes, making antibody-antigen interaction inefficient, with low labeling intensities. One of the main factors in this regard is the use of GA as fixative. New method: To alleviate these technical challenges, we immunized rabbits with antigen pre-fixed with GA. We hypothesized that the resulting antibodies would have stronger affinity to antigens that have been conformationally changed and denatured by GA, the way they are in fixed tissue. Comparison with existing method and results: An initial screening with western blotting (WB) showed results consistent with our hypothesis. In-house antibodies raised against GA-fixed SNARE proteins SNAP-25 and VAMP2, binds more strongly to fixed proteins compared to non-fixed proteins, while the pattern is opposite with the commercially available antibodies raised against non-fixed antigens (standard antibodies). Quantitative post-embedding EM of hippocampal synapses gave higher labeling intensities with anti-GA-SNAP-25 and anti-GA-VAMP2 compared to standard antibodies. Importantly, light microscopy (LM) and EM with our antibodies revealed stronger labeling of GA-fixed than formaldehyde (FH) treated brains. Conclusion: Our results highlight the experimental potential of raising antibodies against GA-treated antigen to improve sensitivity of the antibodies for postembedding immunogold EM.

• Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Hussain, Suleman; Lai, Yi-Chen; Xia, Jun; Anderson, Anne E & Davanger, Svend (2018). Changes in synaptic AMPA receptor concentration and composition in chronic temporal lobe epilepsy. Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience. ISSN 1044-7431. 92, p. 93–103. doi: 10.1016/j.mcn.2018.07.004. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman; Ringsevjen, Håvard; Schupps, M; Hvalby, Øyvind Christian dødsbo; Sørensen, Jakob Balslev & Jensen, Vidar [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). A possible postsynaptic role for SNAP-25 in hippocampal synapses. Brain Structure and Function. ISSN 1863-2653. p. 1–12. doi: 10.1007/s00429-018-1782-2. Full text in Research Archive
• Ringsevjen, Håvard; Hansen, Heidi Marie Umbach; Hussain, Suleman; Hvalby, Øyvind C; Jensen, Vidar & Walaas, S. Ivar [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). Presynaptic increase in IP3 receptor type 1 concentration in the early phase of hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Brain Research. ISSN 0006-8993. 1706, p. 125–134. doi: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.10.030. Full text in Research Archive
• Haglerød, Camilla Margrete; Hussain, Suleman; Nakamura, Yasuko; Xia, Jun; Haug, Finn-Mogens Smejda & Ottersen, Ole Petter [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2017). Presynaptic PICK1 facilitates trafficking of AMPA-receptors between active zone and synaptic vesicle pool. Neuroscience. ISSN 0306-4522. 344, p. 102–112. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.12.042. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman; Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Lai, Yi-Chen; Dosa, Zita Julia; Sørensen, Jakob Balslev & Anderson, Anne E [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2017). The calcium sensor synaptotagmin 1 is expressed in hippocampal postsynaptic spines and is downregulated in epilepsy. Hippocampus. ISSN 1050-9631. 27(11), p. 1168–1177. doi: 10.1002/hipo.22761. Full text in Research Archive
• Lorgen, Jan-Øyvind; Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Hammer, Janniche & Davanger, Svend (2017). PICK1 facilitates lasting reduction in GluA2 concentration in the hippocampus during chronic epilepsy. Epilepsy Research. ISSN 0920-1211. 137, p. 25–32. doi: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2017.08.012. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman; Ringsevjen, Håvard; Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Skjervold, Torstein Landaas & Davanger, Svend (2016). SNARE protein syntaxin-1 colocalizes closely with NMDA receptor subunit NR2B in postsynaptic spines in the hippocampus. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. 9. doi: 10.3389/fnmol.2016.00010. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman & Davanger, Svend (2015). Postsynaptic VAMP/Synaptobrevin Facilitates Differential Vesicle Trafficking of GluA1 and GluA2 AMPA Receptor Subunits. PLOS ONE. 10(10). doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140868. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Vertebrate organisms adapt to a continuously changing environment by regulating the strength of synaptic connections between brain cells. Excitatory synapses are believed to increase their strength by vesicular insertion of transmitter glutamate receptors into the postsynaptic plasma membrane. These vesicles, however, have never been demonstrated or characterized. For the first time, we show the presence of small vesicles in postsynaptic spines, often closely adjacent to the plasma membrane and PSD (postsynaptic density). We demonstrate that they harbor vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP2/synaptobrevin-2) and glutamate receptor subunit 1 (GluA1). Disrupting VAMP2 by tetanus toxin treatment reduces the concentration of GluA1 in the postsynaptic plasma membrane. GluA1/VAMP2-containing vesicles, but not GluA2/VAMP2-vesicles, are concentrated in postsynaptic spines relative to dendrites. Our results indicate that small postsynaptic vesicles containing GluA1 are inserted directly into the spine plasma membrane through a VAMP2-dependent mechanism.

• Li, Yuchuan; Lee, Sindre; Langleite, Torgrim Mikal; Norheim, Frode; Pourteymour, Shirin & Jensen, Jørgen [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2014). Subsarcolemmal lipid droplet responses to a combined endurance and strength exercise intervention. Physiological Reports. 2(11). doi: 10.14814/phy2.12187. Full text in Research Archive
• Xu, Jian; Vik, Alexandra; Groote, Inge Rasmus; Lagopoulos, Jim; Holen, Are & Ellingsen, Øyvind [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2014). Nondirective meditation activates default mode network and areas associated with memory retrieval and emotional processing. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. 8:86(86). doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00086. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Nondirective meditation techniques are practiced with a relaxed focus of attention that permits spontaneously occurring thoughts, images, sensations, memories, and emotions to emerge and pass freely, without any expectation that mind wandering should abate. These techniques are thought to facilitate mental processing of emotional experiences, thereby contributing to wellness and stress management. The present study assessed brain activity by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 14 experienced practitioners of Acem meditation in two experimental conditions. In the first, nondirective meditation was compared to rest. Significantly increased activity was detected in areas associated with attention, mind wandering, retrieval of episodic memories, and emotional processing. In the second condition, participants carried out concentrative practicing of the same meditation technique, actively trying to avoid mind wandering. The contrast nondirective meditation > concentrative practicing was characterized by higher activity in the right medial temporal lobe (parahippocampal gyrus and amygdala). In conclusion, the present results support the notion that nondirective meditation, which permits mind wandering, involves more extensive activation of brain areas associated with episodic memories and emotional processing, than during concentrative practicing or regular rest.

• Xu, Jian; Vik, Alexandra; Groote, Inge Rasmus; Lagopoulos, Jim; Holen, Are & Ellingsen, Øyvind [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2014). Nondirective meditation activates brain areas associated with retrieval of memories and emotional processing. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. 8. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2014.00086. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Nondirective meditation techniques are practiced with a relaxed focus of attention that permits spontaneously occurring thoughts, images, sensations, memories, and emotions to emerge and pass freely, without any expectation that mind wandering should abate. These techniques are thought to facilitate mental processing of emotional experiences, thereby contributing to wellness and stress management. The present study assessed brain activity by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 14 experienced practitioners of Acem meditation in two experimental conditions. In the first, nondirective meditation was compared to rest. Significantly increased activity was detected in areas associated with attention, mind wandering, retrieval of episodic memories, and emotional processing. In the second condition, participants carried out concentrative practicing of the same meditation technique, actively trying to avoid mind wandering. The contrast nondirective meditation > concentrative practicing was characterized by higher activity in the right medial temporal lobe (parahippocampal gyrus and amygdala). In conclusion, the present results support the notion that nondirective meditation, which permits mind wandering, involves more extensive activation of brain areas associated with episodic memories and emotional processing, than during concentrative practicing or regular rest.

• Engstad, Ragna Torgersen; Engstad, Tora Torgersen; Davanger, Svend & Wyller, Torgeir Bruun (2013). Eksekutiv svikt etter hjerneslag. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 133(5), p. 524–527. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.12.0686. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  BAKGRUNN Eksekutiv svikt innebærer redusert evne til initiering, styring og monitorering av målrettet atferd. Tilstanden forblir ofte udiagnostisert. KUNNSKAPSGRUNNLAG Denne oversikten er basert på litteratursøk med ordene «stroke» og «executive function» via søkemotoren McMaster Plus og i databasene Cochrane Library og PubMed samt egne erfaringer. RESULTATER Eksekutiv svikt er en vanlig form for slagrelatert kognitiv dysfunksjon. Den sameksisterer ofte med emosjonell instabilitet og depresjon og er en viktig risikofaktor for tap av selvhjulpenhet og for redusert overlevelse. Diagnostikken er basert på anamnese og observasjon, supplert med kognitive tester. Eksekutiv svikt forekommer også hos personer uten distinkte kliniske hendelser, men med bildediagnostiske tegn på cerebral iskemi, og ved andre hjernesykdommer som Parkinsons sykdom og demenssykdommer. Anatomisk substrat for eksekutiv funksjon er i hovedsak prefrontal cortex og subkortikale baner, men slik svikt ses også ved lesjoner i andre hjerneområder. I behandlingen legges det vekt på kompenserende strategier og gjenvinning av tapt funksjon. FORTOLKNING Eksekutiv svikt er vanlig ved slagrelatert kognitiv svikt, og tilstanden påvirker prognosen. Det er behov for systematisk testing og strategier for behandling og forebygging.

• Davanger, Svend (2013). The Natural Science of Meditation: A 'Black Box' Perspective? In Eifring, Halvor Bøyesen (Eds.), Meditation in Judaism, Christianity and Islam: Cultural Histories. Bloomsbury Academic. ISSN 9781441122148. p. 227–236. Full text in Research Archive
• Nesvold, Anders; Fagerland, Morten; Davanger, Svend; Ellingsen, Øyvind; Solberg, Erik Ekker & Holen, Are [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2012). Increased heart rate variability during nondirective meditation. European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation. ISSN 1741-8267. 19(4), p. 773–780. doi: 10.1177/1741826711414625. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman & Davanger, Svend (2011). THE DISCOVERY OF THE SOLUBLE N-ETHYLMALEIMIDE-SENSITIVE FACTOR ATTACHMENT PROTEIN RECEPTOR COMPLEX AND THE MOLECULAR REGULATION OF SYNAPTIC VESICLE TRANSMITTER RELEASE: THE 2010 KAVLI PRIZE IN NEUROSCIENCE. Neuroscience. ISSN 0306-4522. 190, p. 12–20. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.05.057. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Ellingsen, Øyvind; Holen, Are & Hugdahl, Kenneth (2010). Meditation-specific prefrontal cortical activation during Acem meditation: An fMRI study. Perceptual and Motor Skills. ISSN 0031-5125. 111(1), p. 291–306. doi: 10.2466/02.04.22.PMS.111.4.291-306. Full text in Research Archive
• Strøm, Bjørn Oddvar; Aden, Petra; Mathisen, Gro Haarklou; Lømo, Jon; Davanger, Svend & Paulsen, Ragnhild Elisabeth (2010). Transfection of chicken cerebellar granule neurons used to study glucocorticoid receptor regulation by nuclear receptor 4A (NR4A). Journal of Neuroscience Methods. ISSN 0165-0270. 193(1), p. 39–46. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2010.08.012. Full text in Research Archive
• Lagopoulos, Jim; Xu, Jian; jr., Inge-Andre Rasmussen; Vik, Alexandra; Malhi, Gin S. & Eliassen, Carl Fredrik [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2009). Increased Theta and Alpha EEG Activity During Nondirective Meditation. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. ISSN 1075-5535. 15(11), p. 1187–1192. doi: 10.1089/acm.2009.0113. Full text in Research Archive
• Jenstad, Monica; Quazi, Abrar Zaheer; Zilberter, M; Haglerød, Camilla Margrete; Berghuis, P & Saddique, Navida [Show all 16 contributors for this article] (2009). System A transporter SAT2 mediates replenishment of dendritic glutamate pools controlling retrograde signalling by glutamate. Cerebral Cortex. ISSN 1047-3211. 19(5), p. 1092–1106. doi: 10.1093/cercor/bhn151. Full text in Research Archive
• Utvik, Jo Kristian; Haglerød, Camilla Margrete; Mylonakou, Maria-Niki; Holen, Torgeir; Kropf, Michel & Hirling, H [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2009). Neuronal enriched endosomal protein of 21 kDa colocalizes with glutamate receptor subunit GLUR2/3 at the postsynaptic membrane. Neuroscience. ISSN 0306-4522. 158(1), p. 96–104. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.11.030. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Manahan-Vaughan, Denise; Mulle, Chrisophe; Storm-Mathisen, Jon & Ottersen, Ole Petter (2009). PROTEIN TRAFFICKING, TARGETING, AND INTERACTION AT THE GLUTAMATE SYNAPSE. Neuroscience. ISSN 0306-4522. 158(1), p. 1–3. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.11.012. Full text in Research Archive
• Haglerød, Camilla Margrete; Kapica, Aida; Boulland, Jean-Luc; Hussain, Suleman; Holen, Torgeir & Skare, Øivind [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2009). Protein interacting with C kinase 1 (PICK1) and GluR2 are associated with presynaptic plasma membrane and vesicles in hippocampal excitatory synapses. Neuroscience. ISSN 0306-4522. 158(1), p. 242–252. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.11.029. Full text in Research Archive
• Oltedal, Leif; Haglerød, Camilla; Furmanek, Tomasz & Davanger, Svend (2008). Vesicular release of glutamate from hippocampal neurons in culture: an immunocytochemical assay. Experimental Brain Research. ISSN 0014-4819. 184(4), p. 479–492. doi: 10.1007/s00221-007-1118-6. Full text in Research Archive
• Jenstad, Monica; Quazi, AZ; Haglerød, C.; Saddique, Navida; Buntup, D & Ottersen, OP [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2008). Replenishment of glutamate neurotransmitter pools in excitatory neurons requires glutamine uptake by system A transporter SAT2. Cerebral Cortex. ISSN 1047-3211. Full text in Research Archive
• Eid, T.; Hammer, Janniche; Runden, Elise; Roberg, B; Thomas, M. J. & Osen, K. [Show all 15 contributors for this article] (2007). Increased expression of phosphate-activated glutaminase in hippocampal neurons in human mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. Acta Neuropathologica. ISSN 0001-6322. 113(2), p. 137–152. doi: 10.1007/s00401-006-0158-5. Full text in Research Archive
• Knudsen, Anette; Bredholt, Geir; Storstein, Anette Margrethe; Oltedal, Leif; Davanger, Svend & Krossnes, Bård Kronen [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2007). Antibodies to CRMP3-4 associated with limbic encephalitis and thymoma. Clinical and Experimental Immunology. ISSN 0009-9104. 149(1), p. 16–22. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007-.03379.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Mathisen, Thomas Misje; Nagelhus, Erlend Arnulf; Juoleh, Bahareh; Torp, Reidun; Frydenlund, Didrik Søli & Mylonakou, Maria-Niki [Show all 18 contributors for this article] (2006). Postembedding Immunogold Cytochemistry of Membrane Molecules and Amino Acid Transmitters in the Central Nervous System. In Záborszky, L.; Wouterlood, F. & Lanciego, J.L. (Ed.), Neuroanatomical Tract Tracing: Molecules, Neurons, & Systems. Springer Science+Business Media B.V.. ISSN 9780387289410. p. 72–108. Full text in Research Archive
• Feligioni, M; Holman, D; Haglerød, Camilla Margrete; Davanger, Svend & Henley, JM (2006). Ultrastructural localisation and differential agonist-induced regulation of AMPA and kainate receptors present at the presynaptic active zone and postsynaptic density. Journal of Neurochemistry. ISSN 0022-3042. 99, p. 549–560. Full text in Research Archive
• Hasegawa, H; Yang, ZF; Oltedal, L; Davanger, Svend & Hay, JC (2004). Intramolecular protein-protein and protein-lipid interactions control the conformation and subcellular targeting of neuronal Ykt6. Journal of Cell Science. ISSN 0021-9533. 117, p. 4495–4508. Full text in Research Archive

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• Davanger, Svend; Eifring, Halvor Bøyesen & Hersoug, Anne-Grete (2008). Fighting stress. Acem Publishing. ISBN 9788291405162. 191 p. Full text in Research Archive

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• Pedersen, Willy; Davanger, Svend; Mørland, Jørg; Nordengen, Kaja & Bjørnebekk, Astrid Kristine (2024). Hjernen i sentrum: Rus Forelskelse, alkohol og narkotika. De gir oss alle en rus. Hva skjer i hjernen vår da? Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Rus kan være uskyldig spenning og rus kan være farlig. Noen er rusa på livet, sterke naturopplevelser kan gjøre at vi kjenner oss beruset. Enkelte kunstnere hevder at rusmidler gjør dem i stand til å skape større kunst, noen vil behandle lidelser med psykedelika. Mange mennesker får livet rasert som avhengige av legemidler og narkotiske stoffer. Hva skjer med hjernen når vi ruser oss? Hvorfor blir noen avhengige og andre ikke? Bli med når forskere innen naturvitenskap, psykologi og medisin diskuterer og deler av sin kunnskap om hjernen vår og rus. Innledninger og samtale er beregnet på publikum uten faglig bakgrunn i temaet. Kom og få innblikk i siste nytt fra forskningsfronten! Denne kvelden møter du Seniorforsker Astrid Kristine Bjørnebekk. Hun forsker på psykologiske årsaker til rusavhengighet og langtidseffekt på hjernen ved Oslo Universitetssykehus. Professor emeritus Jørg Mørland, har særlig arbeidet med medisinsk rusmiddelforskning, og bruk av rus og rusadferd i forbindelse med strafferett, rettstoksikologi. Han er nå tilknyttet Senter for rus- og avhengighetsforskning (SERAF) Professor emeritus Willy Pedersen, forsker på ungdom og rusmiddelbruk, mental helse og narkotikapolitikk. Det samfunnsvitenskapelige fakultet. Professor Svend Davanger, forsker på hjernens tolkning av sanseinntrykk, dens evne til å tilpasse seg og hvordan den endres av nye erfaringer. Det medisinske fakultet. Kaja Nordengen, lege og forfatter av blant annet "Hjernen er stjernen" leder oss igjennom programmet.

• Hoem, Juni & Davanger, Svend (2024). Fødselshypnose: – En illusjon at det er forferdelig å føde. [Internet]. NRK Østfold. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2023). Slik vet du om du er farlig stresset. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Alle kan oppleve perioder med stress. Men av og til kan stressfaktoren være farlig. Dette er de skjulte symptomene, som er vanskelig å oppdage.

• Davanger, Svend (2022). Cannabis og hjernen. Full text in Research Archive
• Skutlaberg, Marte & Davanger, Svend (2022). Carl Håkon (23) og Amund (21) savner stillhet i hverdagen. [Journal]. Dagen. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2020). Cannabis og unge hjerner – hva er risikoen ved hasjbruk, hva skjer i kroppen og hjernen ved hasjavvenning, og hvilken betydning vil det få hvis hasjbruken blant ungdom øker? Full text in Research Archive
• Danielsen, Dina & Davanger, Svend (2020). Digital detox: Hva skjer når en gjeng gamere henger i friluft? [Journal]. Aftenposten. Full text in Research Archive
• Svendsby, Egil & Davanger, Svend (2020). Hjerneforsker: Stress ned - lær deg meditasjon. [Journal]. VG. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Kukkonen, Karin & Eifring, Halvor Bøyesen (2020). Tankestrømmens tidsalder - Hvordan hjernen finner hvile i litteratur, meditasjon og hverdagsliv. Full text in Research Archive
• Eifring, Halvor Bøyesen; Davanger, Svend & Holen, Are (2019). Active Relaxation: What Is Nondirective Meditation. In Eifring, Halvor Bøyesen (Eds.), The power of the wandering mind. Nondirective meditation in science and philosophy. Dyade Press. ISSN 9788291405551. p. 2–15. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2019). Hva hjerneforskning kan si om effekten cannabis har og hvorfor det er skadelig. Full text in Research Archive
• Hussain, Suleman; Ringsevjen, Håvard; Schupp, M.; Hvalby, Øyvind Christian dødsbo; Sørensen, J.B. & Jensen, Vidar [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Correction to: A possible postsynaptic role for SNAP-25 in hippocampal synapses (Brain Structure and Function, (2019), 224, 2, (521-532), 10.1007/s00429-018-1782-2). Brain Structure and Function. ISSN 1863-2653. 224(2), p. 533–533. doi: 10.1007/s00429-018-01823-3. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2018). Cannabis truer ikke livet, men måten vi lever det på. [Radio]. NRK - Østlandssendingen. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2018). Ungdomspartier får refs fra hjerneforsker for hasj-liberalisering. [Journal]. Sykepleien. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2018). Nei, cannabis truer sjelden livet. Men det truer måten vi lever det på. Full text in Research Archive
• Lindvåg, Andreas W. H.; Paulsen, Hans Christian & Davanger, Svend (2018). Får refs for hasj-liberalisering. [Journal]. Vårt Land. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend & Lilleås, Heidi Schei (2018). Hjerneforsker: - Skam glorifiserer bruken av marihuana. [Internet]. Nettavisen.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Hjertum, Maja; Davanger, Svend & Skjevik-Aasberg, Daniel (2018). - Det er en politisk myte at cannabis ikke er farlig eller skadelig. [TV]. Morgensending TV 2. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2018). Hjerneforsker: La narkotikaforbudet stå. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Hussain, Suleman; Egbenya, Daniel Lawer & Ringsevjen, Håvard (2017). Synaptotagmin 1 and SNARE proteins in postsynaptic spines: Regulation of AMPA receptor exocytosis. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The last 25 years we have known that the core SNARE complex of VAMP2 (synaptobrevin 2), syntaxin 1 and SNAP-25 are crucial in facilitating and regulating presynaptic vesicular release. However, indirect evidence has also supported a postsynaptic role for SNARE proteins. The necessary postsynaptic vesicles were for a long time only implicated. Using postembedding immunogold electron microscopy in combination with biochemical techniques, we have demonstrated the presence of small vesicles in postsynaptic spines in the rat hippocampus. SNARE proteins and the Ca2+-sensor synaptotagmin 1 are present on vesicular and plasma membranes in these spines. We find evidence that they are involved with exocytosis of glutamate receptor subunits. In the current project, we show that synaptotagmin 1 is present both on cytoplasmic vesicles, and at the postsynaptic density (PSD) and lateral membranes. In cytoplasmic compartments, the highest concentrations of synaptotagmin 1 are found in presynaptic terminals, almost 40 % higher than in postsynaptic spines. However, these spines show about 65 % higher concentrations than the corresponding dendritic shafts, and astrocytic processes showing only background levels of synaptotagmin 1. Less difference is found on cytoplasmic membranes, though also here presynaptic membrane (active zone) is clearly higher than the PSD, which is higher than dentritic membranes. We further investigated whether postsynaptic synaptotagmin 1 is regulated during synaptic plasticity. In a rat model of chronic temporal lobe epilepsy, we found that pre- and postsynaptic concentrations of the protein are reduced compared to control animals. This down regulation may be an adaptive measure to decrease both pre- and postsynaptic calcium sensitivity in excitotoxic conditions. Thus, postsynaptic AMPA receptor concentrations are reduced correspondingly in the epilepsy model. Similar to synaptotagmin 1, the SNARE proteins syntaxin-1, SNAP-25 and VAMP2 (synaptobrevin 2) are present in the highest concentrations at presynaptic compartments, including the active zone, supporting their role in neurotransmitter release. However, also these SNARE proteins are also expressed at significant levels in postsynaptic spines. As we have reported previously, VAMP2 colocalizes with the AMPA receptor subunit GluA1 on the same postsynaptic vesicles. Disrupting VAMP2 by tetanus toxin treatment reduces the concentration of GluA1 in the postsynaptic plasma membrane, indicating that small postsynaptic vesicles containing GluA1 are inserted directly into the spine plasma membrane through a VAMP2-dependent mechanism.

• Hvaal, Sidsel & Davanger, Svend (2017). Skikkelig sjeldent. [Journal]. Asker og Bærums Budstikke. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2017). Kan meditasjon forsinke aldringsprosessen? Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 49(4), p. 21–24. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2017). Stress, hjerne og mental helse hos ungdom. Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 49(4), p. 39–50. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2017). Post-revolusjonært stress-syndrom? Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 49(2), p. 28–35. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2017). Hvordan fungerer hjernen - under stress og meditasjon. Full text in Research Archive
• Eia, Harald; Johansen, Bård Tufte & Davanger, Svend (2016). Brille (TV Norge), Sesong 5, episode 4. [TV]. TV Norge. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2016). Hva er helseeffektene av 50 års meditasjon? Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 48(4), p. 4–10. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2016). A possible role of the default mode network in stress relief and meditation. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2016). Hvordan fungerer hjernen - under stress og meditasjon. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend & Berg-Nielsen, Turid Suzanne (2016). Giftig stress setter spor i hjernen. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2016). Røde flammer. Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 48(2), p. 5–11. Full text in Research Archive
• Kingsrød, Marie Moen & Davanger, Svend (2015). Ny forskning: Dagdrømming kan gjøre deg smartere. [Journal]. VG. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Hussain, Suleman; Ringsevjen, Håvard & Daaland, Elise (2015). SNARE protein syntaxin-1 colocalizes with NMDA receptors in postsynaptic spines in the hippocampus. Full text in Research Archive
• Schjølberg, Ulla Gjeset & Davanger, Svend (2015). Er psykologien i ferd med å bli for upersonlig? [Internet]. forskning.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2015). Molecules of memory: Syntaxin and NMDA receptors in the hippocampal postsynaptic spine. Full text in Research Archive
• Røiri, Vibeke; Risberg, Tor & Davanger, Svend (2015). – Stress kan være bra for hjernen. [Internet]. NRK.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2015). Hvordan fungerer hjernen - under stress og under meditasjon. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2014). Freedom of the mind: Spontaneous thoughts in the brain and during meditation. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2014). Hvordan kan stress være farlig? Slik fungerer hjernen under stress og meditasjon med ledig oppmerksomhet. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2014). Hvordan fungerer hjernen: under stress og meditasjon. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Egbenya, Daniel Lawer; Lorgen, Jan-Øyvind; Hussain, Suleman; Hammer, Janniche & Lai, Yi-Chen [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2014). Decrease in synaptic AMPA receptor expression in the rat hippocampus in chronic medial temporal lobe epilepsy. Full text in Research Archive
• Eifring, Halvor Bøyesen & Davanger, Svend (2014). Tankestrømmens tidsalder. Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. p. 3–3. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2014). Enlightened Neurons: Can Meditation Beef Up Brain Regions? [Internet]. http://www.worldsciencefestival.com/2014/06/enlightened-neur. Full text in Research Archive
• Forberg, Dag-Kristoffer; Chojnacki, Rachel; Vas, Judit; Davanger, Svend; Hove, Knut & Andersen, Inger Lise (2013). Fixation of neonatal goat brain by in vivo carotid perfusion. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2013). Mona Lisa smiler ikke. Hjernens selvbiografiske minner og vår egen historie. Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 45(4), p. 35–39. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2013). Den arabiske mannen - mellom barken og veden. Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 45(3), p. 53–61. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2013). Med Lone Frank i hjerneskanneren. Morgenbladet. ISSN 0805-3847. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend & Landsend, Merete (2013). Slik fungerer Magnus' hjerne. [Journal]. Dagbladet. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2013). Vår nye hjerne. Om synapser og selvforståelse. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2013). Tidsreisen - en engelskmanns opplysningsferd til Norge. Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 45(1), p. 39–45. Full text in Research Archive
• Røiri, Vibeke & Davanger, Svend (2013). Ekko: En stressa hjerne. [Radio]. NRK. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend & Walaas, S. Ivar (2013). De avdekket hjernens signalsystem. Full text in Research Archive
• Forberg, Dag-Kristoffer; Chojnacki, Rachel; Vas, Judit; Davanger, Svend; Hove, Knut & Andersen, Inger Lise (2013). Fixation of neonatal goat brain by in vivo carotid perfusion. Full text in Research Archive
• Torsøe, Mathilde & Davanger, Svend (2012). NRK Viten: Slik krymper depresjoner hjernen. [Internet]. http://www.nrk.no/viten/slik-krymper-depresjoner-hjernen-1.8. Full text in Research Archive
• Kosaka, Einar Yohsuke; Bremere, Agnese & Davanger, Svend (2012). NRK Viten: No kan du styre droner med hjernen. [Internet]. http://www.nrk.no/viten/no-kan-du-styre-droner-med-hjernen-1. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2012). VAMP2/synaptobrevin on postsynaptic vesicles regulates exocytosis of AMPA receptor GluA1 subunits. Full text in Research Archive
• Quazi, Abrar Zaheer; Jenstad, Monica; Haglerød, Camilla Margrete; Saddique, N; Ottersen, Ole Petter & Davanger, Svend [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2005). Glutamine shuttling by the system N and system A transporters is important for the regeneration of the neurotransmitter glutamate during high frequency firing. Full text in Research Archive
• Gammelsaeter, Runhild; Frøyland, Marianne; Aragon, C.; Danbolt, Niels Christian; Edwards, R. H. & Storm-Mathisen, Jon [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2004). A paracrine transmitter interplay: The amino acid transmitters glycine and GABA and their transport proteins in the islets of Langerhans. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2004). Kroppen - alle følelsers mor? Dyade. ISSN 0332-5792. 36(1). Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend (2020). Expert assessment on employment as professor at Karolinska Institutet. Karolinska Institutet. Full text in Research Archive
• Fredriksen, Irene; Davanger, Svend & Helland, Dag Emil (2005). Framstilling og analyse av antiserum mot dei presynaptiske proteina synaptotagmin I, SNAP-25 og VAMP 2. Molekylærbiologisk institutt. Full text in Research Archive
• Davanger, Svend; Helland, Dag Emil & Feta, Almir (2005). An effort to produce the proteins sec5 and sec6 recombinantly in bacteria and insect cells. Molekylærbiologisk institutt. Full text in Research Archive

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