Humans are the only species that display tearful, emotional crying. Why have we evolved this behavior? Does it benefit us? And if so, why don’t we cry more?
The unique human ability to cry
Video Supplement: How is biomedical research funded in the United States?
The US has been a global leader in funding biomedical research. Learn about how that process works and why it’s so important that we maintain our commitment to funding science.
Changing Climate, Changing Brains
How does climate change impact the brain? Spoiler alert: it’s not good
Basic science, exceptional outcomes: A look at how non-clinical research is an important investment into human health
Basic research, intended to better our understanding of the world rather than directly investigate diseases, has laid the groundwork for some of the most important developments in modern medicine. Here, we dive into two examples of how basic research findings have revolutionized our treatment approaches for genetic diseases and neurological diagnoses.
How is biomedical research funded in the United States?
The US has been a global leader in funding biomedical research. Learn about how that process works and why it’s so important that we maintain our commitment to funding science.
Moving and grooving with birds-of-paradise
Male birds-of-paradise perform dazzling displays to attract mates. How do their brains and bodies do this?
Out-of-this-world impacts of spaceflight on the brain and body
If you’ve ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what it would be like to spend some time up there, you’re not alone. Here, we talk about the less-discussed aspects of space travel: the impact it can have on your brain and body.
Eating your way to better brain health: The science behind “brain foods”
There is no magic food that can make you smarter, but maintaining a balanced diet is necessary to keep your brain healthy. Learn how different foods and diets can support brain health.
Of mice and men (and brains)
What can and can’t we learn about the human brain by studying rodent brains?
Your brain by the numbers
Learn just how remarkable your brain is!
Weathering the storm
How do some people overcome the risk for mental illness and what can – or can’t – we learn from them?
Can fungus turn ants into zombies?
A parasitic fungus infects ants and manipulates their behavior. What’s happening behind the scenes?
Shopping the brain: How to find regions to test drive
With a complex organ like the brain, how do neuroscientists decide where to focus their attention? Two newer technologies are paving the way for a fast process that helps researchers make this important decision.
How did the chicken cross the road?
There’s a reason chickens have their unique strut. The “bob” of a chicken’s head as it walks allows it to see, and is enabled by some amazing neural systems.
A window of opportunity for learning
How our early life experiences during “critical periods” permanently shape our brain
The case for turning up the bass
Music is more than just hearing sound; it’s also feeling it. Scientists have shown that feeling the bass makes music more enjoyable and causes people to dance more.
When did you become you?
We all have something about us that makes us unique. Find out how scientists are using fish to uncover when in life this individuality emerges.
We have the technology!
Neuroscientists often develop entirely new tools to better understand the brain. Neuropixels is one such technology that is helping neuroscientists answer major questions.
2022 Neuroscience Year in Review
Read about what excited our writers about neuroscience this year.
Cutting through the “noise”
Learn about 1/f, the static that’s anything but random
Why do we get the hiccups?
… and other brain reflexes that we may have inherited from our distant ancestors.
Studying Animal Behavior Through the Ages
How do scientists study animal behavior? Discover how our methods have developed through the ages, and what we can learn about ourselves from studying other animals.
Is your brain full of plastics?
Humans consume a shocking amount of plastic particles; what effects do they have on the brain?
How a volcano turned a brain into glass
Researchers found perfectly preserved neurons in the remains of the Mount Vesuvius eruption
I Got It From My Mama: Maternal Microbes Support Brain Development of Her Offspring
New research in mice shows how gut microbes affect the brain, even before birth.
Where There’s Smoke
New evidence for epigenetic changes in the brains of cigarette smokers
French Fries or Side Salad?
New research sheds light on why dieting is so challenging
It’s in the blood
How scientists transferred the cognitive benefits of exercise to aged mice…without having to work out
These Circuits Were Made for Walking
A baby’s first steps
The Biased Brain
Your brain might be ready to think it is “us” vs. “them,” but you don’t have to.
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