A GROUNDBREAKING study from Washington University in St. Louis introduces a novel framework for creating personalised brain models, offering unprecedented insights into individual neural dynamics and cognitive states.
The human brain’s complexity, with its billions of neurons and trillions of connections, enables unique cognitive functions such as problem-solving, creativity, and social interaction. However, understanding how individual differences in brain signalling contribute to diverse behaviours remains a major challenge. To address this, neuroscientists and engineers led by ShiNung Ching and Todd Braver developed a technique to generate precision brain models using high-resolution, noninvasive brain scans. Their findings, promise to advance neuroscience research and improve treatments for neurological conditions.
The researchers used data from magnetoencephalography (MEG) and electroencephalography (EEG) to map brain-wide neural dynamics in 27 healthy individuals. The framework models brain activity by incorporating excitatory and inhibitory neural circuits and linking these with alpha- and beta-frequency brainwaves—key indicators of cognitive states. Alpha waves typically correspond to relaxed states like meditation, while beta waves are associated with active cognition such as decision-making. Results showed that individual differences in brainwave frequencies stem from variations in the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurons. The model successfully reproduced alpha and beta patterns for each participant and accurately predicted future brain activity, validating its reliability.
These personalised brain models have the potential to transform clinical practice by offering a deeper understanding of brain dynamics. They may pave the way for tailored medical interventions, including neurostimulation treatments, for conditions like epilepsy or depression. Moreover, this approach could advance research into cognitive enhancement and support ongoing collaborations in refining the model for broader applications.
This innovative framework represents a significant leap in neuroscience, bridging the gap between individual brain dynamics and cognitive functioning. Future studies will focus on expanding its scope and integrating it into clinical and research settings, bringing us closer to personalised medicine and deeper insights into the human brain.
Katrina Thornber, EMJ
Reference
Singh MF et al. Precision data-driven modeling of cortical dynamics reveals person-specific mechanisms underpinning brain electrophysiology. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 2025;122(3):e2409577121.
