Short Wave Scientist Just Made The Largest Brain Map Ever
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Oct 27, 2023 
Jon Hamilton, NPR science correspondent and expert on brain mapping, joins to discuss a groundbreaking atlas detailing over 3,000 brain cell types. This innovative map, part of the NIH's BRAIN initiative, sheds light on brain structure and function, potentially enhancing our understanding of human uniqueness and disease roles. Discover the fascinating connections between technology, ethics, and research, along with the quirky reference to 'splatter neurons,' making complex science relatable and engaging!
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Brain Atlas
- A new brain atlas maps 3,000+ cell types in the human brain, a project involving hundreds of scientists.
- This atlas is foundational for understanding human uniqueness, individual differences, brain development, and disease.
BRAIN Initiative
- The BRAIN Initiative, launched by President Obama in 2013, fueled the creation of the brain atlas.
- This initiative invested in tools and fostered collaboration among scientists, enabling large-scale brain research.
Research Methods
- Mouse brains were initially used to test new approaches due to their smaller size and existing knowledge.
- Ethical acquisition of living human brain cells was addressed through partnerships with surgeons, using tissue removed during necessary procedures with patient consent.