The coming decade of digital brain research: A vision for neuroscience at the intersection of technology and computing

Abstract

In recent years, brain research has indisputably entered a new epoch, driven by substantial methodological advances and digitally enabled data integration and modelling at multiple scales— from molecules to the whole brain. Major advances are emerging at the intersection of neuroscience with technology and computing. This new science of the brain combines high-quality research, data integration across multiple scales, a new culture of multidisciplinary large-scale collaboration and translation into applications. As pioneered in Europe’s Human Brain Project (HBP), a systematic approach will be essential for meeting the coming decade’s pressing medical and technological challenges. The aims of this paper are to: develop a concept for the coming decade of digital brain research, discuss this new concept with the research community at large, to identify points of convergence, and derive therefrom scientific common goals; provide a scientific framework for the current and future development of EBRAINS, a research infrastructure resulting from the HBP’s work; inform and engage stakeholders, funding organisations and research institutions regarding future digital brain research; identify and address the transformational potential of comprehensive brain models for artificial intelligence, including machine learning and deep learning; outline a collaborative approach that integrates reflection, dialogues and societal engagement on ethical and societal opportunities and challenges as part of future neuroscience research.

Visually Evoked 40 Hz Gamma Activity Enhanced by Transcranial Electrical Stimulation

“…This finding points to an exciting translational avenue: independently, both visual and electrical stimulation protocols to modulate gamma oscillations are known to be safe, tolerable, and clinically relevant in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease (Blanco-Duque et al, 2023; Manippa et al, 2023). Experts are calling for the next generation of neurotechnology to be scalable, broadly applicable, and effective in modulating brain activity and plasticity (Amunts et al, 2024; Ploner et al, 2023). Our data pose multimodal gamma stimulation as a strong candidate and encourage further research to establish its potential as a therapeutic intervention.…”