Computational Neuroscience
Articles tagged with Computational Neuroscience
How to build a discovery machine
Brain-controlled hearing system proves itself in first human studies
Researchers at Columbia University's Zuckerman Institute have developed a brain-controlled hearing system that can help people focus on one conversation among many. The system, which leverages the brain's natural ability to filter through background noise, dynamically isolates specific conversations in real-time.
Inspired by the brain, researchers build smarter, more efficient computer hardware
EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium to convene neuroscience community in Munich
The EBRAINS Roadmap Symposium will bring together the global neuroscience community to shape the EBRAINS 10-Year-Roadmap. A total of 159 submissions from 134 unique contributors across 25 countries have been received, reflecting the momentum of Europe's digital neuroscience landscape.
Terrence Sejnowski wins inaugural World Digital Technology Academy Award
Terrence Sejnowski receives Scientific Breakthrough Award for his foundational development of Boltzmann machines, providing the architectural bedrock for deep learning and generative AI. His work has had a profound impact on modern artificial intelligence and tools like ChatGPT.
Researchers simulate novel brain architecture for fast and flexible decision-making
Researchers propose a novel brain architecture for efficient processing, integrating parallel cortical and subcortical pathways. This approach may improve decision-making tasks, suggesting current AI models are missing key brain function principles.
Brain’s wiring and signal speed shape alpha waves and background activity across the lifespan
A new model, Xi–αNET, explains how brain structure and signal conduction speed shape alpha waves and background activity. The study found that faster conduction speeds in younger individuals correspond to higher alpha frequencies, while slower conduction speeds in older adults lead to declining alpha frequencies.
How the brain charts emotion in a map-like way
A new study reveals that the hippocampus represents emotion concepts in a structured hierarchy of pleasantness and bodily reaction, while the ventromedial prefrontal cortex tracks relationships between these nodes. This map-like representation may help in the treatment of mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety.
Brown University professor John Donoghue wins Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering
Donoghue was recognized for his foundational leadership in advancing brain–computer interfaces, enabling individuals with paralysis to regain independence. His work has shown that neural activity persists even after spinal cord injury or neurological illnesses like ALS have robbed people of their ability to move.
Scientists develop new way to “listen in” on the brain’s hidden language
Researchers have engineered a protein that can detect the faintest incoming chemical signals of brain cells, allowing for real-time decoding of neural activity. This breakthrough enables scientists to understand the complex cascade of electrical activity underlying learning, memory, and emotion.
Loss of key visual channel triggers rhythmic retinal signals linked to night blindness
Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have discovered that the loss of TRPM1 ion channels sets off a cascade of changes leading to persistent oscillations in the retina. This finding illuminates the cellular basis of congenital stationary night blindness and identifies a common mechanism underlying retinal degenerative conditions.
Topology-aware deep learning model enhances EEG-based motor imagery decoding
Researchers developed a novel topology-aware multiscale feature fusion network to enhance EEG-based motor imagery decoding. The TA-MFF network achieves excellent classification performance, outperforming state-of-the-art methods by leveraging spectral-topological data analysis-processing and inter-spectral recursive attention.
The basic mechanisms of visual attention emerged over 500 million years ago, study finds
The superior colliculus, an ancestral brain structure, enables the brain to distinguish objects from the background and detect relevant stimuli in space. It generates centre–surround interactions independently, allowing for the detection of contrasts, edges, and salient features.
Scientists find ways to boost memory in aging brains
Researchers at Virginia Tech found that adjusting molecular processes can improve memory in older subjects. They used CRISPR-dCas13 and CRISPR-dCas9 to target age-related changes in K63 polyubiquitination and IGF2, two genes linked to memory formation.
Salk scientist Terrence Sejnowski receives 2025 NIH Director’s Pioneer Award
Terrence Sejnowski, a renowned neuroscientist at Salk Institute, has been awarded the 2025 NIH Director's Pioneer Award to develop advanced computational techniques for analyzing working memory. His research aims to better understand and treat memory disorders in mental health conditions.
Millisecond windows of time may be key to how we hear, study finds
Researchers used precise neural activity measurements from epilepsy patients to study how brain processes speech. The findings suggest the auditory cortex operates on a fixed, internal timescale independent of speech structures, providing a consistently timed stream of information.
Peeking inside AI brains: Machines learn like us
A new study in Nature Communications found that AI models exhibit a geometric property called convexity, which helps humans form and share concepts. Convexity is also linked to the performance of AI models on specific tasks.
Many possible futures: How dopamine in the brain might inform AI that adapts quickly to change
Researchers found that brain's dopamine neurons encode a map of possible future rewards across time and magnitude, guiding adaptive behavior in uncertain environments. This biological insight aligns with recent advances in AI, particularly distributional RL algorithms, which learn from reward distributions rather than averages.
How does coffee affect a sleeping brain?
A recent study found that caffeine increases brain signal complexity and enhances criticality during sleep, with effects more pronounced in young adults. This can lead to a state where the brain is neither fully awake nor relaxed, potentially interfering with restful recovery.
Vesicle cycle model reveals inner workings of brain synapse
Researchers have successfully modeled the synaptic vesicle cycle with unprecedented detail, shedding new light on how our brains function. The model predicts parameters of synaptic function that could not be tested experimentally, opening new avenues for neuroscience investigations.
Developing a new analysis method for capturing long-term brain activity in freely moving mice
Researchers have developed CaliAli, an advanced analytical framework that aligns calcium imaging data across multiple sessions, allowing for the continuous tracking of individual neurons. This breakthrough enables long-term brain activity studies and advances understanding of memory formation, retention, and neurological diseases.
Scientists discover potential new targets for Alzheimer’s drugs
Scientists at MIT have identified new potential targets for treating Alzheimer's disease, including a pathway involved in DNA damage repair. The study suggests that a combination of treatments targeting different cellular pathways may be more effective in blocking disease progression.
Exploring REM sleep's role in PTSD: New insights from the University of Texas at San Antonio research
Researchers from the University of Texas at San Antonio discovered a significant link between REM sleep disturbances and increased PTSD severity. The study suggests that targeting REM sleep could be a promising approach for improving PTSD treatment outcomes.
University of Ottawa-led research team forges compelling new insights into dynamics of the brain’s serotonin system
A University of Ottawa-led study reveals that serotonin neurons are connected and interact with each other, controlling serotonin release in specific regions of the brain. This complex system has implications for understanding decision-making and developing targeted therapeutics for mood disorders.
A study led by UPF reveals which brain mechanisms allow psychosis to remit
Researchers have identified differences in neural connectivity patterns between patients with recovered and persistent psychosis. These differences enable the development of new intervention strategies for patients with psychosis, according to a study published in Nature Mental Health.
What overrides the brain’s satiety signals and prompts overeating?
The research aims to bridge the translational gap between animal and human studies, exploring how obesity impacts decision-making around food. The team will measure brain chemical activity while participants consume sugary drinks and complete emotion-related tasks.
Novel brain study increases understanding of what triggers drug use relapse
A novel brain study uncovers the critical role of the HDAC5 enzyme in regulating gene expression and neuronal activity, which can trigger relapse in individuals with substance use disorders. The study highlights a new molecular target for developing novel treatments to reduce relapse risk.
New Drosophila analysis tool opens up neuroscience research to resource-limited settings
Researchers developed a freely available analysis tool, DANCE, for automating the quantification of male aggression and courtship behaviors in fruit flies. The tool uses machine learning and has been shown to be as accurate as expert manual scoring with costs less than $0.30 per experiment.
Major themes and growth areas in the application of AI in the neurosciences shown in inaugural issue of AI in neuroscience
A new review article identifies major themes in AI application to neurosciences, including a 5-fold increase in AI-related publications. The study also notes a surge of over 13-fold in clinical neurology AI-related publications in the past decade.
The Open Brain Institute announces the dawn of a new frontier in neuroscience
The Open Brain Institute launches a groundbreaking platform to simulate and study digital brains, empowering researchers to explore brain complexity and diseases. With its virtual neuroscience laboratories, the OBI enables global collaboration and access to cutting-edge virtual labs.
A study by UPF and Oxford clarifies that people take decisions more quickly than computers in situations of risk using quantum physics techniques
A new model of brain computational analysis, called CHARM, reveals that the human brain can surpass machines in critical decision-making. The CHARM model applies quantum mechanics to analyze long-distance brain connections, enabling precise modeling of the brain's dynamics.
A new model accurately predicts the movement of elite athletes to catch the ball in parabolic flight
A new model developed by researchers at the University of Barcelona accurately predicts how elite athletes move to catch a moving object just from an initial glance. The model integrates prior knowledge of gravity and physical size into visual information, allowing for precise predictions of trajectory and time until impact.
Brain-wide activity change visualized as geometric patterns
The study uses PCArs to analyze brain neuronal activity in various situations, revealing that different brain regions exhibit distinct geometric figures during object recognition and memory tasks. The findings suggest that the brain processes visual information in real-time and changes its activity pattern from moment to moment.
Words activate hidden brain processes shaping emotions, decisions, and behavior
Researchers found neurotransmitters in the human brain are released during emotional language processing, providing insights into how words shape our choices and mental health. The study bridges biology and symbolism, linking neural processes to human communication and emotion.
How do directional connections shape complex dynamics in neuronal networks?
The study reveals that directional connections propagate signals in a downstream flow, leading to more complex activity patterns. Mathematical models also suggest that modularity and connectivity interact to foster dynamical complexity.
KAIST proposes a new way to circumvent a long-time frustration in neural computing
Researchers at KAIST developed a new method to learn without weight transport, enabling faster and more accurate learning. By pre-training with random noise, the team showed that neural networks can achieve high learning efficiency and solve the weight transport problem.
The Lagomarsino Prize from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT) awarded researchers Marco Celotto and Simone Russo
Marco Celotto and Simone Russo were awarded the Lagomarsino Prize for their groundbreaking research in neuroscience, which combined excellent scientific results with outstanding methods for data analysis, data management, and Open Science. Their work has led to pioneering discoveries on brain stimulation and its potential applications ...
New insight into brain stability: the key role of NMDA receptors
Researchers discovered that NMDA receptors set the baseline level for neural network activity, helping maintain stable brain function. The study's findings suggest potential innovative treatments for diseases linked to disrupted neural stability.
Human proteins identified that explain inter-individual differences in functional brain connectivity
Researchers identified hundreds of brain proteins associated with inter-individual differences in functional connectivity and structural covariation. The proteins were enriched for those involved in synapses, energy metabolism, and RNA processing, providing insights into the mechanistic basis of human cognition and behavior.
Meta-learning of motor skills in the dorsal premotor cortex of the brain
A research group at the University of Tsukuba discovered that the dorsal premotor cortex plays a crucial role in meta-learning for motor skills. The study found that stimulating this region impairs the meta-learning effect on memory forgetting, but not motor learning itself.
Cancer cell populations segregate to favor metastasis or antitumor inflammation
A recent study published in Nature Cancer has discovered that cancer cells exhibit opposing pro and antitumor programs, with the former promoting metastasis and the latter combating tumor growth. This finding opens new avenues for therapeutic strategies to target highly aggressive and therapy-resistant tumors.
How do you remember how to ride a bike? Thank your cerebellum
Studies show that the cerebellum is critical for forming stable memories for sensorimotor skills, largely independent of short-term memory systems. Researchers found that longer time intervals between trials increased reliance on impaired long-term memory.
Small brains can accomplish big things, according to new theoretical research
Researchers have discovered that small networks of neurons in the fruit fly's brain can generate an accurate internal compass, contrary to previous assumptions. This finding expands our knowledge of what small networks can do and challenges traditional views on brain size and function.
Human brain cancers fire electrical impulses – researchers reveal unexpected hybrid cell spiking the signals
A new study reveals that a third of glioma cells, a type of brain tumor, fire electrical impulses. These hybrid cells combine features of neurons and glia, challenging the long-held notion that only neurons generate electric signals in the brain.
Walking the walk, WVU develops motion compatible brain scanner
Researchers at WVU created a motion-compatible brain scanner that allows patients to move around during imaging. The Ambulatory Motion-enabling PET (AMPET) scanner can help study human behaviors, balance, and emotions, and may be used to monitor brain activity for PTSD treatment and mindfulness meditation.
Exploring the impact of meta-learning on post-stroke motor recovery
Researchers developed a motor meta-learning task to assess stroke patients' ability to recognize their learning capabilities and plan practice. The study found a significant correlation between meta-learning ability and improvement index, suggesting that enhanced individual meta-learning ability can improve rehabilitation efficacy.
Study identifies universal blueprint for mammalian brain shape
Researchers have identified a universal blueprint for mammalian brain shape, describing the cerebral cortex as following a fractal pattern across species. The study suggests that cortices across primate species resemble this universal scaling law and self-similarity, revealing a common set of mechanisms governing cortical folding.
Scientists find that small regions of the brain can take micro-naps while the rest of the brain is awake and vice versa
Researchers found that small regions of the brain can momentarily 'flicker' awake while the rest of the brain remains asleep, and vice versa from wake to sleep. This challenges traditional understanding of sleep and wake patterns, which have been defined by slow, long-lasting waves.
Study reveals how an anesthesia drug induces unconsciousness
Researchers discovered that propofol, a commonly used anesthesia drug, induces unconsciousness by causing the brain to become increasingly unstable. This instability leads to chaotic brain activity, resulting in loss of consciousness. The study's findings could help develop better tools for monitoring patients during general anesthesia.
New computational model of real neurons could lead to better AI
A new model developed by Flatiron Institute researchers proposes that individual neurons exert more control over their surroundings, which could be replicated in artificial neural networks. This updated model treats neurons as tiny 'controllers' and may lead to better AI performance and efficiency.
Innovative system enhances biological-artificial interactions in neurological research
A new tool, BioemuS, enables real-time emulation and hybridization of biological systems using biomimetic Spiking Neural Networks, addressing limitations of current pharmacological treatments. The system, developed through international collaboration, prioritizes cost efficiency and accessibility for closed-loop applications.
Simplicity versus adaptability: Understanding the balance between habitual and goal-directed behaviors
A new study on learning has provided insights into the balance between habitual and goal-directed behaviors, with implications for AI development. The research suggests that a balance between these two types of behavior is necessary for efficient and adaptable decision-making in AI systems.
What’s going on in our brains when we plan?
A team of scientists has uncovered how our brains simulate possible future actions using stored memories. The prefrontal cortex and hippocampus work together to enable mental simulations, allowing us to make better decisions. This research provides foundational knowledge on brain circuits enabling decision-making.
Hitting the target with non-invasive deep brain stimulation: Potential therapy for addiction, depression, and OCD
Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel non-invasive technique to target deep brain regions involved in neurological disorders. By applying low-level electrical stimulation on the scalp, they can selectively stimulate key brain regions without invasive procedures.
Upgrading brain storage: Quantifying how much information our synapses can hold
Salk scientists develop new method to quantify synaptic features, revealing high precision of plasticity and up to 10 times more storage capacity. The technique uses information theory to analyze synapse pairs from a rat hippocampus, offering a scalable approach for studying brain function.
How the brain is flexible enough for a complex world (without being thrown into chaos)
Neurons exhibit 'mixed selectivity,' integrating multiple inputs and computations, ensuring focused cognition. The brain employs mechanisms like oscillations and neuromodulators to recruit neurons and tune them to relevant information.
Janelia scientists release state-of-the-art spike-sorting software Kilosort4
Researchers at Janelia Research Campus have released Kilosort4, an updated version of the popular spike-sorting software that requires less manual work and is more accurate. The new software improves processing and allows for easier use, making it indispensable for neuroscientists worldwide.
Researchers design new open-source technology for interfacing with living neurons
Researchers developed a new open-source system to interface with living neurons, offering enhanced control and precision in measuring neural processes. The system boasts over 500 electrodes, allowing for more data collection and customization, while being 10 times cheaper than commercial systems.
“Noisy” roundworm brains give rise to individuality
Researchers found large individual differences in roundworm neural activity despite conserved neural circuits. Computer simulations including noise accurately model whole-brain activity, shedding light on neuronal connectivity and essential role of noise in brain function.