Exploring Neural Connections and Projects

Connectome

• A complete map of all neural connections in the brain.
• Shows how neurons and brain regions are connected.
• Understanding consciousness, memory, and mental processes will benefit from it.

Brain Atlas

• A map of brain cells and structures used in neuroscience.
• Guides understanding of different brain cell types and their roles.
• A complete cellular atlas helps understand the human brain compared to others.

BRAIN Initiative

• A research program by the NIH focused on brain study technologies.
• Funds research on brain imaging, mapping, and brain-computer interfaces.

Human Brain Project

• A European Union project using neuroscience and AI to study the brain.
• Aims to create simulated brain models for studying brain disorders.

Brain/MINDS Project

• A Japanese neuroscience initiative studying marmoset brains.
• Marmosets have similar brain structures to humans, making them a model for studying human higher brain function and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Neurogenesis

• The process of creating new neurons.
• Once thought to cease in adulthood, ongoing research investigates its continuation.
• Potential new treatments for neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimer's, if neurogenesis exists.

Brain Organoids

• Miniature brain models made from stem cells.
• Studying brain development and neurodegenerative diseases in the lab.
• Future potential for repairing damaged brain tissue.

Optogenetics

• Uses light to control neuron activity.
• Neuroscientists activate or deactivate specific neurons to understand their function.

Chemogenetics

• Uses chemicals instead of light to manipulate neurons.
• Provides longer, more stable control of neural circuits; useful for studying behavior and brain disorders.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

• A non-invasive method using magnetic fields to stimulate brain activity.
• Treats depression and other neurological conditions; research on cognitive function.

Neural Interfaces (Brain-Computer Interfaces, BCIs)

• Technology for direct brain-computer/prosthetic communication.
• Helps those with paralysis control artificial limbs and communicate.

Single-Cell Transcriptomics/Proteomics

• Examines gene expression and protein composition in individual brain cells.
• Understanding brain cell diversity and how cells change in conditions like neurodegenerative diseases.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Neuroscience

• Uses AI and machine learning to analyze and understand the brain.
• Speeding up brain scan analysis, disease biomarker identification, and improved brain models.

Epigenetics in the Brain

• Study of how environmental and lifestyle factors affect gene expression without changing DNA.
• Explains how stress, nutrition, and other factors affect brain health and mental disorders.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imaging

• A brain imaging technique using radioactive tracers to observe brain activity.
• Used in research and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders.