Tools & Techniques

Nano-Drugs Take Aim at Brain Cells

The blood-brain barrier once stopped medication from reaching the brain. Researchers have found their way through.

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Henrietta Lacks

Henrietta Lacks’ long-living cancer cells became an invaluable — and controversial — research tool.

BrainFacts/SfN

Turning Brain Cells On and Off With Light

With just a flash of light, optogenetics helps scientists turn brain cells on and off. Edward Boyden, one of The Brain Prize 2013 winners, explains.

The Brain Prize

Neurons Run on Calcium

From cell metabolism to electrical signaling, the multitasking mineral does it all.

BrainFacts/SfN

The Science Behind Implantable Medical Devices

Douglas Weber, professor at the University of Pittsburgh, explains improvements in neural-digital technologies, including prosthetics and injectable nerve stimulators.

BrainFacts/SfN
14 min

How a Sensing Prosthetic Changed My Life

Brandon Prestwood, an amputee, shares how a prosthetic arm with a sense of touch changed his life.

BrainFacts/SfN
14 min

Tackling Inequality in Neural-Digital Technology

New neural-digital interfaces could worsen existing healthcare inequalities if developers ignore socioeconomic concerns.

BrainFacts/SfN
11 min

Fostering Empathy Through Virtual Reality

Visualization research lets people experience alternate perspectives, which could increase empathy.

BrainFacts/SfN
16 min

The Broad Reach of PTSD

Historically associated with combat veterans, PTSD symptoms occur in people with vastly different experiences, including those whose jobs rarely take them away from a desk.