Brainstem

Recent articles

Research image showing resting-state functional connectivity in the human red nucleus.

‘Ancient’ brainstem structure evolved beyond basic motor control

The human red nucleus may also help coordinate action, reward and motivated behavior, a new study suggests.

By Sydney Wyatt
16 May 2025 | 5 min read
Research image of neurons in the nucleus of the mouse solitary tract.

Cell population in brainstem coordinates cough, new study shows

The work also adds to a growing body of evidence showing that mice, and their genetic toolbox, can be used to study cough.

By Calli McMurray
6 September 2024 | 5 min read
Research image of tau proteins in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Supersized version of Alzheimer’s protein avoids clumping in brain

“Big tau” may explain why some brain regions, such as the cerebellum and brainstem, are largely spared from neurodegeneration, even though tau is expressed throughout the nervous system.

By Charles Q. Choi
16 August 2024 | 6 min read

Explore more from The Transmitter

Abstract flowing shapes.

Perimenopause: An important—and understudied—transition for the brain

Many well-known perimenopause symptoms arise in the brain, but we still know little about the specific mechanisms at play. More research—in both animals and humans—is essential.

By Marija Kundakovic
12 November 2025 | 7 min listen
Speech bubbles and images of a brain overlaid on a globe.

A community-designed experiment tests open questions in predictive processing

More than 50 scientists came together to identify the key missing data needed to rigorously test theoretical models.

By Jérôme Lecoq
12 November 2025 | 6 min read
Colorful drawing of a human brain.

‘Neuroethics: The Implications of Mapping and Changing the Brain,’ an excerpt

In his new book, published today, philosopher Walter Glannon examines the ethics of six areas of neuroscience. In Chapter 4, a portion of which appears below, he tackles the ethical considerations of using brain organoids in research.

By Walter Glannon
11 November 2025 | 7 min read

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