Ongoing Studies at the Brain Sciences Center
The primary goal of the research at the Brain Sciences Center is to elucidate the dynamic mechanisms of the working brain in health and disease. The neuroscientists at the Brain Sciences Center are working to unlock the mysteries of debilitating neurological diseases, disorders, and addictions. With today's technology, researchers are able to view these dynamic processes of the working brain, and take the first steps toward understanding the mechanisms which may lead to treatment and prevention to help the millions suffering from brain afflictions.
Gulf War Illness
MEG synchronous neural interactions (SNI) test in Gulf War Veterans
Objectives: To use brain imaging to better understand brain function in veterans with and without symptoms of Gulf War Illness.
Research plan and methods: Veterans who served in Operation Desert Storm (ODS) will be invited to complete physical and mental health assessments and undergo Magnetoencephalograpy (MEG) recording. MEG is a quick, noninvasive brain imaging technique that permits researchers to examine activity on the surface of the brain.
The Brain Sciences Chair
was created by the efforts of a tripartite partnership from private, state and federal sectors including:
The American Legion Family of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota
Minneapolis Veterans Affairs
Health Care System
This partnership provided funds for an endowed chair in Brain Sciences, as well as office space and general support for the Brain Sciences Center.
Since it opened in 1991, the Center has grown substantially in physical size and personnel. The staff now includes more than 40 people, who come from a variety of academic backgrounds and institutions around the world. All have trained at the Brain Sciences Center on research methods ranging from neurophysiology to brain imaging. This unique blend of people and the integration of many scientific disciplines creates an environment for excellence in research and education.
(above) The Brain Sciences Chair in the office of Dr. Apostolos Georgopoulos.
