A Beacon of Neuroscience Exploration: Inception and Vision
Since its inception, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute has stood as a beacon of neuroscience exploration, driven by the visionary leadership of Michael Friedlander and a team of pioneering researchers. Founded with a mission extending beyond the confines of laboratory walls, the institute’s focus is on igniting collective curiosity about the mysteries of the brain.
Brain School: An Annual Ode to Neuroscience
At the forefront of this endeavor lies Brain School, an annual event held at the Heath Sciences and Technology campus in Roanoke. This event serves as an ode to the complexities of the mind, offering participants an expedition into the latest advancements in neuroscience.
Exploring “The Craving Brain: Food and Drugs”
The spotlight of this year’s Brain School falls on the intriguing interplay between emerging therapeutic drugs for Type 2 diabetes and their unforeseen impact on behavior and well-being. Titled “The Craving Brain: Food and Drugs,” the discourse delves into the curious connection between certain Type 2 diabetes medications—semaglutides and tirzepatides, commonly known as Ozempic and Mounjaro—and their surprising association with weight loss and decreased alcohol cravings.
Understanding the Influence of Weight Loss Drugs
Among the esteemed researchers leading this exploration are Warren Bickel and Alexandra DiFeliceantonio. Their investigations into the influence of weight loss drugs on behavior and well-being have garnered significant attention, shedding light on the mechanisms underlying weight loss and its impact on cravings.
Multidisciplinary Engagement at Brain School
Brain School transcends disciplinary boundaries, with over 40 research teams spanning various biomedical and health sciences domains participating in the event. Faculty members and graduate students from diverse fields converge to present their research through engaging exhibits.
Notable Participants and Their Contributions
Among the notable participants are Professor Zhen Yan, shedding light on the mechanisms underlying the brain benefits of exercise. Associate Professor Albert Pan’s research on zebrafish brains offers intriguing parallels to human brain dynamics, while Meike van der Heijden focuses on understanding cerebellar function in health and disease.
Innovative Insights and Techniques
Assistant Professor Wynn Legon will share insights into the potential of low-intensity focused ultrasound in managing chronic pain. Therapists from the Neuromotor Research Clinic will showcase innovative approaches to aiding children with movement disorders, while Maosen Wang demonstrates how advanced imaging techniques support cutting-edge brain research.
Delving Into Brain Anatomy
Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of brain anatomy with faculty members from the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine—Assistant Professors John McNamara and Kristofer Rau.
Emphasizing Human Health and Behavior
“Enhancing human health hinges on unraveling the complexities of our brains—ranging from basic reflexes to intricate cognitive processes,” emphasizes Michael Friedlander. Comprehending both the healthy and the impaired brain is paramount to understanding the essence of human behavior and interaction.
Extending Outreach and Nurturing Aspirations
Beyond the confines of the research institute, graduate students extend their outreach to local schools, sharing their discoveries and nurturing the aspirations of budding neuroscientists.
Conclusion: A Continual Pursuit of Knowledge
In conclusion, the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute stands as a testament to the continual pursuit of knowledge and understanding in the field of neuroscience. Through events like Brain School, it not only advances scientific research but also fosters curiosity and inspires the next generation of neuroscientists.
Data Source: theroanokestar