KAUST researchers collaborated with the Blue Brain Project to study astrocytes, brain cells crucial for memory and learning. Dr. Corrado Calì produced 3D models of astrocytes using serial block-face electron microscopy to understand their structure. The study, published in Progress in Neurobiology, reveals how lactate transfer from astrocytes to neurons contributes to brain energy usage. Why it matters: Understanding astrocyte function could lead to new drugs for treating conditions like stroke and Alzheimer's disease by improving brain cell function.
KAUST held its first Enrichment in the Spring (SEP) program from March 20–28, focusing on the human brain and mind, coinciding with Brain Awareness Week. The program featured lectures from neuroscientists like Professor Alim-Louis Benabid, and presentations by KAUST's Ali Awami and Corrado Cali on visualization technology for studying the brain. KAUST researchers are collaborating with the Human Brain Project and Harvard University to develop comprehensive brain models and visualize connectome data. Why it matters: This initiative highlights KAUST's commitment to advancing neuroscience research and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations to understand the complexities of the human brain.
KAUST researcher Corrado Calì won an award at the Brainstorming Research Assembly for Young Neuroscientists (BraYn) in Italy for his work on glycogen modulation and synapse stabilization. Calì presented research in collaboration with KAUST Professor Andrea Falqui and Dr. Elena Vezzoli from the University of Milan, investigating the lactate shuttle's involvement in synaptic plasticity. Calì and KAUST colleagues are also collaborating with the Blue Brain Project to produce a computer simulation of astrocyte-neuron coupling, using 3D virtual reality to investigate brain cell morphologies at the nanoscale. Why it matters: This award recognizes KAUST's contribution to neuroscience research and highlights the university's collaborative efforts in understanding brain plasticity and developing advanced tools for studying brain structures.
Dr. Yves Agid from the ICM Paris Institute of Translational Neuroscience lectured at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program about the role of glial cells in brain function and behavior. He highlighted that glial cells, often overlooked in research, are crucial for neural synchronization and overall intelligence. Dysfunction of glial cells can induce pathologies like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Why it matters: The lecture underscored the importance of studying glial cells in addition to neurons for understanding and treating neurodegenerative disorders, which could influence future research directions at KAUST and in the region.
KAUST Discovery highlights the contributions of Magistretti to the field of neuroenergetics. His research explores the cellular and molecular basis of brain energy metabolism and brain imaging. Magistretti's group discovered mechanisms underlying the coupling between neuronal activity and energy consumption, revealing the role of astrocytes. Why it matters: Understanding brain energy metabolism and the role of glial cells can advance brain imaging techniques and our understanding of neuronal processes.
KAUST hosted the Nature Conferences: Brain Energy Metabolism in Health and Disease, convening experts to discuss brain energy use and its impact on function and disease. Researchers from KAUST and global institutions shared insights on metabolic interactions among brain cells and the brain's role in whole-body energy regulation. KAUST's President Sir Edward Byrne emphasized brain health as essential for the cognitive economy, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Why it matters: The conference highlights KAUST's growing role in global neuroscience research and its commitment to addressing critical health challenges through international collaboration.
Caltech graduate student Surya Narayanan Hari presented his research on replicating human-like memory in machines at MBZUAI. He discussed how the thalamus, which filters sensory and motor signals in the brain, inspires the development of routed monolithic models in AI. Hari explained that memory retrieval occurs on object, embedding, and circuit levels in the human brain. Why it matters: This talk highlights the potential of neuroscience-inspired AI architectures for improving memory and information processing in AI systems, which could accelerate the development of more efficient and context-aware AI models in the region.
Margaret Livingstone, a neurobiology professor at Harvard Medical School, lectured at KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program 2018 on how art can reveal insights into the human brain. She discussed how artists have long understood the independent roles of color and luminance in visual perception. Livingstone highlighted examples from Picasso, Monet, and Warhol to illustrate how artists manipulate visual cues. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary approach can potentially lead to new understandings of how the brain processes visual information and inform advances in both neuroscience and art.