Allen Institute Begins Project to Map the Human Perception

Although we currently have a relatively good idea of the macro anatomical structure of the brain, very little is known about its physiology--precisely how its components work and communicate at a microscopic level. The cerebral cortex, “the most organized piece of matter in the known universe,” is of particular interest to current researchers as it is the portion of our brain that plays a key role in memory, attention, perception, language and thought (Boyle).

Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft is pledging $300 million to establish a “series of ‘brain observatories’ at the Seattle research facility named after him, with the aim of mapping and manipulating the mouse brain.” In this projected 10-year-long effort, researchers hope to begin to understand the “roots of vision and decision-making by analyzing the billions of cells and synapses in the brain's cerebral cortex” (Hotz). If we can understand each of the individual building blocks that underlie brain function, their interconnections can be accurately mapped. This would provide not only a clearer understanding of the circuitry that drives our thought and behavior, but potentially could lead to clues in neural disease/dysfunction mechanisms as well. With this knowledge, conditions such as Alzheimers, Autism, Depression might eventually be treatable.

If successful, the findings from this preliminary mapping of the mouse visual cortex could be applied to the exploration of its other brain regions, and eventually to other mammalian brains — including the human brain. Allen says, “our dream is to uncover the essence of what makes us human. There is really no greater challenge with a potentially more huge impact than understanding how brains work.” The Allen Institute plans to begin this process by doubling its staff over the next four years, as well as directing funds toward the development of new “instruments and computer-modeling capabilities” (Boyle).

Sources:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303812904577295573865402682.html

http://cosmiclog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/03/21/10793463-billionaire-paul-allen-kicks-off-brain-observatory-effort-with-300-million