Using light to produce natural sleep patterns
Researchers use optogenetics to trigger REM sleep in mice.
Neuroscientists reverse memories’ emotional associations
MIT study also identifies the brain circuit that links feelings to memories.
Controlling movement with light
MIT neuroscientists inhibit muscle contractions by shining light on spinal cord neurons.
Illuminating neuron activity in 3-D
New technique allows scientists to monitor the entire nervous system of a small worm.
Feng Zhang wins NSF's Alan T. Waterman Award
Waterman Award is NSF's highest honor recognizing an outstanding researcher under the age of 35.
Optogenetic toolkit goes multicolor
New light-sensitive proteins allow scientists to study how multiple sets of neurons interact with each other.
In the brain, timing is everything
Study reveals how the brain links memories of events that occur one after the other.
A common brain pathway for anxiety and social behavior
MIT neuroscientist Kay Tye finds a discrete brain circuit that controls social interaction, which is impaired in many brain disorders.
Brain circuit can tune anxiety
New findings may help neuroscientists pinpoint better targets for antianxiety treatments.
Controlling genes with light
New technique can rapidly turn genes on and off, helping scientists better understand their function.
Compulsive no more
MIT study sheds light on what causes compulsive behavior, could improve OCD treatments.
