Bright idea as study maps brain links

Scientists have created a map of more than a billion brain cell connections, paving the way for greater understanding of how memories develop.

The detailed images are said to be the first to illustrate how these connections are organised. Researchers believe this could transform knowledge of brain disease. Those behind the research used molecular imaging and artificial intelligence to look at synapses in mouse brains.

Synapses are gaps between brain cells that enable chemical and electrical messages to be transmitted. Sections of the brain tissue were engineered to emit light.