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.
A Caltech researcher presented at MBZUAI on memory representation and retrieval, contrasting AI and neuroscience approaches. Current AI retrieval systems like RAG retrieve via fine-tuning and embedding similarity, while the presenter argued for exploring retrieval via combinatorial object identity or spatial proximity. The research explores circuit-level retrieval via domain fine-tuned LLMs and distributed memory for image retrieval using semantic similarity. Why it matters: The work suggests structured databases and retrieval-focused training can allow smaller models to outperform larger general-purpose models, offering efficiency gains for AI development in the region.
KAUST researchers in the Sensors Lab are developing neuromorphic circuits for vision sensors, drawing inspiration from the human eye. They created flexible photoreceptors using hybrid perovskite materials, with capacitance tunable by light stimulation, mimicking the human retina. The team collaborates with experts in image characterization and brain pattern recognition to connect the 'eye' to the 'brain' for object identification. Why it matters: This biomimetic approach promises advancements in AI, machine learning, and smart city development within the region.
MBZUAI researchers are developing spiking neural networks (SNNs) to emulate the energy efficiency of the human brain. Traditional deep learning models like those powering ChatGPT consume significant energy, with a single query using 3.96 watts. SNNs aim to mimic biological neurons more closely to reduce energy consumption, as the human brain uses only a fraction of the energy compared to these models. Why it matters: This research could lead to more sustainable and energy-efficient AI technologies, addressing a major challenge in deploying large-scale AI systems.
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.
KAUST Professor Pierre Magistretti received the 2016 Fondation IPSEN Neuronal Plasticity prize for his work in neuroenergetics. The award recognizes Magistretti's contributions to understanding the relationship between neuronal activity and brain energy consumption. He shares the award with Dr. David Attwell and Dr. Marcus Raichle, and will be honored at FENS in Copenhagen. Why it matters: This award highlights KAUST's contribution to international neuroscience research and strengthens its reputation in biological and environmental science.
KAUST professor Pierre Magistretti has been elected to the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. His election recognizes his contributions to neuroscience, specifically his work on lactate's role in brain function. Magistretti's research focuses on the lactate shuttle system and how neurons and glial cells cooperate to meet energy demands. Why it matters: This honor highlights KAUST's contribution to international neuroscience and can foster further collaboration in the field.
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.