Artificial networks learn to smell like the brain
When asked to classify odors, artificial neural networks adopt a structure that closely resembles that of the brain’s olfactory circuitry.
How the brain navigates cities
We seem to be wired to calculate not the shortest path but the “pointiest” one, facing us toward our destination as much as possible.
Study shows fragile X treatment can incur resistance, suggests ways around it
While the brain acquires resistance to continuous treatment with mGluR5 inhibitor drugs, lasting effects may still arise if dosing occurs intermittently and during a developmental-critical period.
Documentary short, “The Uprising,” showcases women in science who pressed for equal rights at MIT in the 1990s
Film examines the history and international impact of the 1999 Study on the Status of Women Faculty in Science at MIT, through interviews with Nancy Hopkins and other leading scientists.
How the brain deals with uncertainty
Dedicated circuits evaluate uncertainty in the brain, preventing it from using unreliable information to make decisions.
New integrative computational neuroscience center established at MIT’s McGovern Institute
The K. Lisa Yang Integrative Computational Neuroscience (ICoN) Center will use mathematical tools to transform data into a deep understanding of the brain.
Seven from MIT receive National Institutes of Health awards for 2021
Awards support high-risk, high-reward biomedical and behavioral research.
Behind the scenes, brain circuit ensures vision remains reliable
A study of mice watching movies shows our brain cells rely on a circuit of inhibitory neurons to help ensure that the same images are represented consistently.
New bionics center established at MIT with $24 million gift
Interdisciplinary research center funded by philanthropist Lisa Yang aims to mitigate disability through technologies that marry human physiology with electromechanics.
Statistical model defines ketamine anesthesia’s effects on the brain
Neuroscientists at MIT and Massachusetts General Hospital develop a statistical framework that describes brain-state changes patients experience under ketamine-induced anesthesia.
RNA-targeting enzyme expands the CRISPR toolkit
Exploring diversity among bacterial immune systems, McGovern Institute scientists uncovere a programmable system for precisely targeting and modifying RNA.
Novel approach reverses amblyopia in animals
By temporarily suspending retinal activity in the non-amblyopic eye of animal models, neuroscientists restrengthen the visual response in the "lazy" eye, even at ages after the critical period when patch therapy fails.
New programmable gene editing proteins found outside of CRISPR systems
Researchers find RNA-guided enzymes are more diverse and widespread than previously believed.
MIT welcomes nine MLK Visiting Professors and Scholars for 2021-22
Record number of honorees will engage in the life of the Institute through teaching, research, and other interactions with the MIT community.
Jordan Harrod: Brain researcher and AI-focused YouTuber
The PhD student uses machine learning as a tool for studying pain and consciousness — and as subject matter for her popular videos.