Neurology

Scientists discover how the human brain folds

February 1, 2016

Understanding how the brain folds could help unlock the inner workings of the brain and unravel brain-related disorders, as function often follows form Folded brains likely evolved to fit a large cortex into a small volume, with the added benefit of reducing neuronal wiring length and improving cognitive function. But how does the brain fold? A simple mechanical instability associated with buckling, researchers at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, collaborating with scientists in … more…

Graphene is ideal substrate for brain electrodes, researchers find

February 1, 2016

An international study headed by the European Graphene Flagship research consortium has found that graphene is a promising material for use in electrodes that interface with neurons, based on its excellent conductivity, flexibility for molding into complex shapes, biocompatibility, and stability within the body. The graphene-based substrates they studied* promise to overcome problems with “glial …more…