Monkey Matter

The brain uses a complex network of bundles of nerve cells – neurons – to transfer information as we interpret and respond to the world around us. Many of its details are still a mystery, leaving scientists searching for new angles on this vital living supercomputer. Here, researchers examine a monkey’s brain using x-rays at the European synchrotron. Particles forced to loop in circles at high speeds are fired at the tissue sample, uncovering new details based on how the particles scatter. The experiments reveal nerve cell projections known as axons (highlighted as thin multi-coloured lines) and blood vessels (orange) inside a complex region of the cerebral cortex of a monkey. Interestingly, researchers find some groups of axons form layers or laminar structures, adding to our picture of the human brain’s similar connectome.

Written by John Ankers

John Ankers

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A former researcher in systems biology, John is now an online biology tutor and professional coach supporting the wellbeing of scientists and NHS professionals. He's writing, too, of course.

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• Video from work by Hans Martin Kjer and colleagues
• Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Center for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
• Video originally published with a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
• Published in eLife, February 2025