Complex, unfamiliar sentences make the brain’s language network work harder
A new study finds that language regions in the left hemisphere light up when reading uncommon sentences, while straightforward sentences elicit little response.
McGovern Institute
Deep neural networks show promise as models of human hearing
Study shows computational models trained to perform auditory tasks display an internal organization similar to that of the human auditory cortex.
A new way to see the activity inside a living cell
Using fluorescent labels that switch on and off, MIT engineers can study how molecules in a cell interact to control the cell’s behavior.
Search algorithm reveals nearly 200 new kinds of CRISPR systems
By analyzing bacterial data, researchers have discovered thousands of rare new CRISPR systems that have a range of functions and could enable gene editing, diagnostics, and more.
Aging Brain Initiative symposium showcases “cutting-edge” research across MIT
Seed projects, posters represent a wide range of labs working on technologies, therapeutic strategies, and fundamental research to advance understanding of age-related neurodegenerative disease.
MIT scientists receive NIH BRAIN Initiative grants
BRAIN CONNECTS supports McGovern Institute and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences research aimed at mapping the brain’s connections.
The brain may learn about the world the same way some computational models do
Two studies find “self-supervised” models, which learn about their environment from unlabeled data, can show activity patterns similar to those of the mammalian brain.
Soft optical fibers block pain while moving and stretching with the body
The fibers could help with testing treatments for nerve-related pain.
Ariel Furst and Fan Wang receive 2023 National Institutes of Health awards
The awards support creative, innovative research with a broad impact.
Thousands of programmable DNA-cutters found in algae, snails, and other organisms
New research finds RNA-guided enzymes called Fanzors are widespread among eukaryotic organisms.
Practicing mindfulness with an app may improve children’s mental health
New research suggests daily mindfulness training at home helped reduce kids’ stress levels and negative emotions.
Twelve with MIT ties elected to the National Academy of Medicine for 2023
Five MIT faculty, along with seven additional affiliates, are honored for outstanding contributions to medical research.
One scientist’s journey from the Middle East to MIT
Through his leadership and vision, McGovern Institute postdoc Ubadah Sabbagh aims to improve the scientific process in the US and abroad.
Re-imagining our theories of language
Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences faculty members Ev Fedorenko, Ted Gibson, and Roger Levy believe they can answer a fundamental question: What is the purpose of language?
Study decodes surprising approach mice take in learning
In a simple game that humans typically ace, mice learn the winning strategy, too, but refuse to commit to it, new research shows.