Sparse, small, but diverse neural connections help make perception reliable, efficient
First detailed mapping and modeling of thalamus inputs onto visual cortex neurons show brain leverages “wisdom of the crowd” to process sensory information.
Holding information in mind may mean storing it among synapses
Comparing models of working memory with real-world data, MIT researchers find information resides not in persistent neural activity, but in the pattern of its connections.
Study reveals a protein’s key contribution to heterogeneity of neurons
Tomosyn’s tight regulation of neurotransmitter release distinguishes functions of two neuron classes at the fly neuromuscular junction.
Findings weaken notion that size equals strength for neural connections
Among study’s many surprises may be a new way to address Fragile X syndrome — by finding a “protein X.”
Study finds “volume dial” for turning neural communication up or down
The protein Synaptotagmin 7 limits supply of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles for release at synapses.
Technique can image individual proteins within synapses
Rapid imaging method could help reveal how conditions such as autism affect brain cells.
What separates the strong from weak among connections in the brain
MIT study finds synapses develop strength with calcium, maturation.
MIT scientists discover fundamental rule of brain plasticity
Study reveals how, when a synapse strengthens, its neighbors weaken.
Picower and MIT scientists awarded BRAIN Initiative grants
Researchers will advance our understanding of the human mind and discover new ways to treat, prevent, and cure neurological disorders.
Picower study finds connection between rare muscle disease and autoimmune disorders
Patients with a rare neuromuscular disorder and those with nerve damage tied to autoimmune disorders may share the same faulty synapses.
New insights into how brain synapses transmit information
Two essential proteins regulate the molecular machinery that controls neuronal communication and the release of signals between neurons.
Mimicking the brain, in silicon
New computer chip models how neurons communicate with each other at synapses.