The rules neurons follow to make sense of what we see
Brain cells take in many signals through thousands of circuit connections. A new study discerns the rules that turn inputs into a functional arrangement for neurons that process vision.
Four from MIT named 2026 Searle Scholars
Computational neuroscientist Sven Dorkenwald and cell biologist Whitney Henry, along with two MIT alumni, are recognized for their exceptional early-career research contributions.
Language development in the brain
The brain’s language network is still evolving in adolescence. But by age 4, language processing is already handled by the left side of the brain, new research finds.
Solving hard problems in soft electronics
Camille Cunin PhD ’26 is transforming rigid circuitry into stretchable, signal-amplifying devices built for real-world biomedical use.
Rethinking how our brains use categories to make sense of the world
Researchers propose a challenge to the traditional view of how the brain uses its ability to categorize.
MIT BrainTrust supports neighbors living with brain injuries
Nearly 100 MIT students participate in a buddy program that assists Boston-area residents.
Rett syndrome study highlights potential for personalized treatments
Using advanced human cell cultures, MIT researchers tracked how two different mutations alter neural circuit development, and how each could be addressed with distinct potential therapeutics.
Beacon Biosignals is mapping the brain during sleep
Founded by Jake Donoghue PhD ’19 and former MIT researcher Jarrett Revels, the company is creating an AI-driven platform to help diagnose and treat disease.
How neurons sense bacteria in the gut
Neural interaction with bacteria has important effects on animal brains. A new study investigates how neurons sense bacteria by revealing, in nematodes, the bacterial signals that a key neuron detects.
With navigating nematodes, scientists map out how brains implement behaviors
MIT scientists create a detailed map of exactly what happens in the brains of C. elegans worms when they “follow their nose” to savor attractive odors or avoid unappealing ones.
Turning muscles into motors gives static organs new life
A new biohybrid system developed at MIT is the first living implant that uses rewired nerves to revive paralyzed organs.
After 16 years leading Picower Institute, Li-Huei Tsai will sharpen focus on research, teaching
Tsai, who has grown the MIT neuroscience institute, will increase focus on research including Alzheimer’s disease and Down syndrome.
Brain circuit needed to incorporate new information may be linked to schizophrenia
Impairments of this circuit may help to explain why some people with schizophrenia lose touch with reality.
Scientists discover genetics behind leaky brain blood vessels in Rett syndrome
By showing the problem derives from genetic mutations that lead to overexpression of a microRNA, MIT researchers’ study points to potential treatment.
Neurons receive precisely tailored teaching signals as we learn
New work suggests the brain can deliver neuron-specific feedback during learning — resembling the error signals that drive machine learning.