Colloquium on the Brain and Cognition with Li-Huei Tsai, PhD, MITDate: Thursday, February 27, 2025Time: 4:00pmLocation: 46-3002, Singleton Auditorium (Third floor of MIT Building 46)Zoom: https://mit.zoom.us/j/94635707197Frequency Matters: Harnessing 40 Hz Stimulation for Alzheimer's Disease and NeuroprotectionRhythmic neural activity in the gamma range (30–80 Hz) plays a crucial role in cognitive function and is disrupted in several neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We developed a method called Gamma ENtrainment Using Sensory stimuli (GENUS), which uses patterned light and sound stimulation at 40 Hz in AD model mice to assess the effects of enhancing gamma oscillations. Our findings demonstrate that GENUS increases gamma power across multiple brain regions. Moreover, daily application significantly reduces amyloid and tau pathology, mitigates neuronal and synaptic degeneration, and improves cognitive function in various AD mouse models.In addition, GENUS induces morphological and gene expression changes in glial cells and the vasculature. It also enhances cerebrospinal fluid influx and facilitates glial-mediated and lymphatic-like brain waste clearance—known as glymphatic clearance—through a vasoactive intestinal peptide interneuron-dependent mechanism. We provide evidence that enhanced glymphatic clearance is essential for the reduction of amyloid burden in the cortex following GENUS.Our current efforts focus on deciphering the cellular, molecular, and neural circuit mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of gamma entrainment. I will discuss our latest findings on how gamma oscillations regulate multiple neuromodulatory systems to drive protective effects, including the modulation of visceral organs. If time permits, I will also present clinical findings using GENUS and explore the feasibility of this non-invasive sensory stimulation approach for treating neurological disorders in human patients. These results highlight the potential of GENUS as a promising therapeutic avenue for Alzheimer’s disease, offering a non-invasive approach to engage neuromodulatory systems and restore brain function.

Lecture I: Molecular Photoswitches to Remote-Control Materials and DevicesLecture II: Localizing Reactivity by Dual Color Xolographyhttps://www.hechtlab.de/en/abouthecht.html

Recreational swims provide a fun and engaging way for children and parents to practice new skills, stay active, and enjoy quality time together in the pool with the MIT community.No Z Center (MIT Recreation - Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center) membership is required to participate.A parent or caregiver must accompany children in the water. Per Z Center policy, each adult may supervise up to two children at a time.Children must be at least 6 months old to join. If younger, they must be able to hold their head up comfortably. Registration is here. Only for MIT Spouses and Partners Connect members.

Even when you have a good writing plan, the drafting process can feel daunting if not overwhelming. No worries—the Writing and Communication Center can help. This workshop will cover strategies for developing your argument, building paragraphs, and engaging with your sources and data.Complementing these practical and conceptual strategies will be tips for troubleshooting and maintaining momentum in your writing or communication project.

How Informed Do You Want Your Principal to Be? | Anne-Katrin Roesler (University of Toronto)

This event explores how the process of designing alternative futures can deepen a learner's understanding of complex problems, positively impact one's sense of self, and transform defeat into self-empowerment. Using climate change as the backdrop, a panel discussion will highlight current work using climate futurism to impact change. A hands-on speculative design exercise will challenge students to reimagine an alternate future unfettered by current constraints.Free with museum admission. Free for teens.