Research News
Darks are conveyed faster than lights
Bochum scientists show that contrasts between object and background lead to activity waves in the brain that support movement perception (February 2016).
Vertebrate cerebral architecture is bisexual
Berlin researchers show that cerebral images of the genitals are projected on the same anatomical map (January 2016).
Reading the neural code for space
Munich scientists have put forward a mathematical theory that explains key features of grid cells, which are involved in spatial navigation (December 2015).
Fine tuning in the brain
From a hodgepodge to well tuned networks—Freiburg researchers develop a computer model to explain how nerve cell connections form in the visual cortex (June 2015).
How experience may lead to misperception
Distance, volume or duration—when judging magnitudes, we make systematic errors. Munich researchers now combine two competing classical theories of magnitude estimates (April 2015).
Why some neurons “outsource” their cell body
In insects, the cell body of neurons is usually located at the end of a separate extension. Berlin researchers show that this increases the strength of electrical signal transmission at no additional energetic cost (April 2015).
Neurons with a Sixth Sense
When rats are touched at their facial whiskers, nerve cells in the brain become active even before the contact is made, Berlin researchers report (March 2015).
One brain area, two planning strategies
Göttingen researchers unravel how the brain plans arm movements. In the parietal cortex, two neuronal groups pursue different planning strategies (March 2015).
Short distances provide energy efficiency
Göttingen scientists reveal mechanisms of biological data transmission in the hair cells of the inner ear (February 2015).
Physical exercise keeps the brain young
Göttingen researchers investigate the influence of sport on the adaptability of the brain (February 2015).