Author: Julie Pryor

In the first study to compare patterns of brain activity in adults who recovered from childhood ADHD and those who did not, McGovern Institute neuroscientists have discovered key differences in a brain communication network that is active when the brain is at wakeful rest and not focused on a particular task.

The findings offer evidence of a biological basis for adult ADHD and should help to validate the criteria used to diagnose the disorder, according to the researchers. Read more >>

Boston’s NPR station, 90.9 WBUR, ran a story this morning about cutting edge dyslexia research as part of their series called “Brain Matters.” They featured John Gabrieli’s brain imaging research, which found differences in a key language structure, even before children start learning to read.

Today, WBUR (Boston’s NPR station) began a 2-month long series on the brain called “Brain Matters.” This morning, they ran a segment which featured interviews with Bob Desimone and Ed Boyden. Desimone was also the featured guest on the Radio Boston, where he fielded questions from callers about the current state of brain research.

As part of this series, WBUR.org posted 12 images that show some of the cutting-edge techniques that scientists are using to try to solve the mystery of the brain. Some of the beautiful images are from McGovern labs. “Brain Matters” also asked 11 young neuroscientists from BU, Harvard and MIT to share what they’re working on — and why their research is important. These interviews are posted on the WBUR website.

Yinqing Li is a graduate student in Feng Zhang’s lab and a McGovern Institute Friends Fellow. His career goal is to “solve the connectome.”

Leah Acker is a McGovern Institute Friends Fellow who earned her PhD working in the labs of Bob Desimone and Ed Boyden. Leah’s projects involve the invention and application of new technologies for less-invasive neuromodulation, and the study of optogenetic control of brain circuits.