Using light to manipulate neuron excitability
A new optogenetics-based tool allows researchers to control how neurons respond to electrical input.
When Alzheimer’s degrades cells that cross hemispheres, visual memory suffers
Research reveals cells that span brain hemispheres to coordinate activity in visual processing centers, shows Alzheimer’s degrades their structure and function.
When a task adds more steps, this brain circuit helps you notice
By tracking feedback during tasks, the anterior cingulate cortex notices when a new step has become necessary and signals the motor cortex to adjust.
Is it neuroscience? Chemistry? Art? Wulff Lecture shows versatility, diversity in materials science
Professor Polina Anikeeva’s innovation in the treatment of neurological disorders highlights the interdisciplinary nature of her field.
A single memory is stored across many connected brain regions
Innovative brain-wide mapping study shows that an “engram,” the ensemble of neurons encoding a memory, is widely distributed and includes regions not previously realized.
Feast or forage? Study finds circuit that helps a brain decide
By integrating multiple sensory inputs, a loop of mutual inhibition among a small set of neurons allows worms to switch between long-lasting behavioral states.
Six with MIT ties elected to the National Academy of Medicine for 2021
Professors Linda Griffith and Feng Zhang along with Guillermo Ameer ScD ’99, Darrell Gaskin SM ’87, William Hahn, and Vamsi Mootha recognized for contributions to medicine, health care, and public health.
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.
As novel sights become familiar, different brain rhythms and neurons take over
As “visual recognition memory” emerges in the visual cortex, one circuit of inhibitory neurons supplants another, and slower neural oscillations prevail.
Cortex over reflex: Study traces circuits where executive control overcomes instinct
Frontal brain region overrides reflexive inclination of a deeper, older region when rules require.
Controlling drug activity with light
Miniaturized device activates drugs in a small region deep within the brain.
Identifying the structure and function of a brain hub
A direct comparison of sensory and higher-order thalamic circuits reveals fundamental differences in how they control the cerebral cortex.
Scientists identify specific brain region and circuits controlling attention
Norepinephrine-producing neurons in the locus coeruleus produce attention focus, impulse control via two distinct connections to prefrontal cortex.
Optogenetics with SOUL
The Feng lab has developed a next-generation optogenetic system for non-invasive stimulation of neurons.
Leg nerves activated by light offer new path to restoring mobility
New optogenetic technique could help restore limb movement, treat muscle tremor.