It’s clear that genes, receptors and neurons all play a role in detecting odors. But much of how we make sense of what we sniff remains mysterious.

How well can you see in the dark? Your retinas have specialized nerve cells that help, but your brain makes things even clearer through a process called contrast gain control.

Loneliness can take a toll on health. Researchers are exploring how it shows up in the brain and how people can feel more socially connected.

We sense a lot about our environment but are only conscious of some of it. One theory, the global workspace theory, attempts to explain how the brain decides what to pay attention to.

Conspiracy theories take advantage of our pattern-seeking brains by grabbing attention, triggering strong emotions, and giving meaning to random events. Researchers think dopamine could be to blame when people forgo the facts for fiction.

The blood-brain barrier protects your brain by ensuring the important things stay in while pathogens stay out.

And other neuroscience news you may have missed in August 2024.

Automation bias is the tendency to be less vigilant when a process is automated. But can we effectively check ourselves against AI before making a wrong decision?

Vote for your favorite 2024 Brain Awareness Video Contest entry by Sept. 15, 2024, to help crown the People’s Choice award.

Huda Akil’s research on pain and stress illuminates the brain’s own resources for combatting physical and mental distress.