In 2011, Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman and his team at Harvard received a small piece of human brain tissue that had been removed from a patient undergoing surgery to reduce seizures. This sample was meticulously analyzed and reconstructed using advanced imaging technology. The brain tissue was sliced into thin sections using a $6 million device and then examined under an electron microscope to create a detailed map of the intricate connections between brain cells.
This digital map, known as a “connectome,” is the most detailed representation of the human brain ever produced. It provides valuable insights into the complex wiring patterns of the brain and how individual cells are connected to one another. Access to this exclusive article is available to STAT+ subscribers, who can benefit from in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and networking opportunities. Subscribing to STAT+ provides unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive content.
Subscribe now to unlock this article and gain access to a wealth of information on cutting-edge research and advancements in neuroscience. The connectome has already revolutionized our understanding of the human brain, and its potential for future discoveries is vast. By subscribing to STAT+, you can stay ahead of the curve on neuroscience research and gain valuable insights into this rapidly evolving field.
