From Neurons to Nodes, Here’s a Look at Stories On Machine Learning

©Johan Jarnestad/The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to John J. Hopfield and Geoffrey E. Hinton for "foundational discoveries and inventions that enable machine learning with artificial neural networks." Recognizing patterns and objects in images—and remembering them—is something our organic brain does remarkably well, but an artificial brain must be trained to do. As in our bio-brain, this task starts with strengthening connections between neurons, or in AI's case, nodes. The work of these laureates in using fundamental concepts and methods from physics to develop technologies that use structures in networks to process information sparked a revolution in machine learning and artificial intelligence. It’s the foundation scientists around the world have built upon, here’s a look at how AI is used to model and study the brain and ultimately benefit human health.

How Networks in the Brain Give Us Artificial Intelligence

Much like neural networks in the brain, artificial neural networks adjust the strength of their connections with repeated exposure to data to perform certain functions.

Taking a Human Centered Approach to Artificial Intelligence

AI expert Fei-Fei Li discusses how deep-learning machines can support the human experience — not replace it.

Putting Artificial Neural Networks to the Task

Using computational modeling, Kanaka Rajan builds neural networks to examine brain functions — and to understand how the brain solves problems.

AI Targets Location Where Female and Male Brains Differ

Scientists trained AI to recognize patterns in brain activity that differ between sexes. 

AI Informs Diagnostics and Therapies for Depression, Alzheimer’s, and Dystonia

Artificial intelligence systems can help inform the development of new techniques for more nuanced treatments.