Scientists from the University of Surrey have developed an advanced computer simulation that models how our brains develop and grow neurons. This innovative research aims to improve our understanding of brain function, with the hope that these models will significantly advance neurodegenerative disease studies and one day contribute to stem cell research aimed at regenerating brain tissue.
The research team utilized a method known as Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC), a technique that refines the model by comparing the simulated neuron growth to real-life neuron patterns. This ensures that the computer-generated brain closely mimics actual neuron development and connection formation.
The simulation was tested on neurons in the hippocampus, a critical brain region responsible for memory retention. The team’s findings revealed that their model accurately replicated the growth patterns of real hippocampal neurons, showing that this technology holds significant promise in simulating brain development at a very detailed level.
Dr. Roman Bauer, from the School of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at the University of Surrey, emphasized the importance of this breakthrough:
“Understanding how our brains function remains one of the greatest scientific mysteries. With simulations like this, along with rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, we’re gradually uncovering how neurons grow and communicate. We hope that this work will eventually lead to better treatments for devastating diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, transforming the lives of millions.”
While the current model shows remarkable accuracy in replicating the growth of hippocampal pyramidal neurons, the precision of the simulation depends on the quality of real-life neuronal data used for calibration. Limited or incomplete data could reduce the model’s effectiveness. However, with further adjustments, the simulation could accurately model other neuron types and brain regions.
This breakthrough was made possible by BioDynaMo, a software co-developed by Dr. Bauer. BioDynaMo enables researchers to effortlessly create, run, and visualize complex simulations across a wide array of fields, whether biological, sociological, or ecological.
