However, the inability to reliably identify all neurons within whole-brain recordings has precluded a full picture with circuit-level details Coupling NeuroPAL with whole-brain activity imaging methods permits a unified view of network dynamics, across animals, without sacrificing circuit-level details.” More recent work has inaugurated whole-brain activity imaging with cellular resolution. “To date, functional networks have been investigated by recording the activity of small subsets of labeled neurons. In the discussion section of the recent study, the authors explain the potential uses of this tool in expanding our understanding of neural networks, including those not belonging to small worms:

The researchers also created a computer program that provides optimal color schemes for using NeuroPal in other, more complicated animals.īy providing a way to reliably identify different types of neuron cells and visibly present them for observation, NeuroPal will make creating comprehensive brain maps much simpler.

Using this tool, the study found that the connections in this animal’s brain are much more complicated than previously known. As mentioned, NeuroPal can identify every neuron that expresses certain genetic features. Previous studies using electron microscopes have mapped the connections in the worm’s brain but have faced difficulties identifying every neuron in the system.

A tiny creature, they have a comparatively simple and well-mapped nervous system.

elegans is commonly used in biological science for experimentation.

Brain mapping tools comparison