Magnetic sensors track muscle movement, for better prosthetic limb control
Researchers hope to use these sensors to help people with amputation achieve more natural movements with their prosthetic limbs.
Capturing the complete process of embryonic development
By tracking over 1 million cells, researchers created a detailed map of embryonic development in mice. It could provide development and disease insights.
How the biggest Alzheimer’s risk gene disrupts the process of insulating neurons
MIT researchers showed that the APOE4 gene variant suppresses molecular signaling needed for oligodendrocytes to myelinate neurons and also demonstrated a proof-of-concept fix.
Implantable device uses ultrasound to improve drug delivery to the brain
This targeted approach could offer a way to prevent the recurrence of aggressive brain tumors.
Symposium highlights MIT’s wide range of innovations for aging brain health
In six talks, researchers from across MIT described projects aimed at advancing the understanding of and interventions against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS.
How artificial neural networks build their own learning machinery
Machine-learning networks can learn without detailed instructions from a designer. Those that do may offer insight into how the brain reorganizes itself during learning.
Estimating suicide risk from text
A new language-processing tool could help identify the highest-risk individuals from natural language, enabling swifter interventions.
How the brain keeps its options straight at decision time
Making a decision requires juggling a set of options without getting them confused or losing track of them. A new MIT study shows how neurons encode information to maximize clarity throughout the process.
Poitras Center to fuel early careers of 50 young scientists dedicated to psychiatric disorders research
Patricia and James Poitras ’63 provide fellowships for graduate students and postdocs who will shape the future of mental health research.
Injectable nanodevices could provide effective treatment for drug-resistant glioblastoma
MIT researchers show implanted nanoantennas can be activated wirelessly to kill brain cancer cells without damage to healthy tissue.
A burst of “pink noise” may lead to more restorative sleep
Delivered at just the right time, this type of auditory stimulus can strengthen the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which clears debris from the brain and keeps it healthy.
Cognition and consciousness arise from analog computations, says new theory
The brain's ability to generate quick, nimble volitional thought — and a unified awareness of thought and experience — arises from analog computations, MIT neuroscientists argue in a new review.
Atlas of the brain’s striatum could guide researchers to new drug treatments
A new study reveals insights into populations of neurons affected by Huntington’s disease, schizophrenia, addiction, and other disorders.
Brain circuit keeps tabs on what just happened to aid judgment of what’s happening now
To keep track of what’s going on in front of it, the brain relies not only on what it sees, but also a comparison with what it just saw. A new study pinpoints the circuit that provides that service.
Tackling rare genetic disorders with patient-focused science
Shannon Knight, a brain and cognitive sciences PhD candidate and McGovern Institute researcher, focuses on developing a novel gene therapy.