That Neuroscience Guy The Tools That Neuroscientists Use
May 28, 2025
Discover the fascinating tools that neuroscientists use to unlock the mysteries of the brain. From single unit recordings to EEG and fMRI, learn how these techniques provide insights into brain activity. The discussion also highlights secondary measures like galvanic skin response and eye tracking, showcasing how they help infer brain function in unique ways. It's a deep dive into the cutting-edge methods that are shaping our understanding of neuroscience!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Balancing Space and Time
- Measuring both spatial and temporal resolution is crucial for understanding brain activity accurately.
- Single unit recordings provide the best of both, pinpointing where and when neurons fire.
Single Unit Recording Example
- Single unit recording involves inserting a probe into a single neuron to measure its electrical activity precisely.
- It reveals specific neuronal responses, like those that fire only to horizontal or vertical lines in the visual cortex.
EEG and Brain Wave Examples
- EEG measures brain waves using electrodes on the scalp, capturing excitatory and inhibitory post-synaptic potentials.
- Event-related potentials like the reward positivity and P300 track brain responses to stimuli and cognitive states.