Mindstake - Giocare con il proprio cervello per capire le neuroscienze

The brain is the most complex structure in the human body, responsible for all our thoughts and actions. It makes us who we are. The brain enables us to live our lives, to perceive, to think, to remember and to act. Researchers around the globe are striving to discover the mysteries of brain and mind, from consciousness to memory, from development during childhood to the consequences of ageing. Practically every day sees new findings published by brain researchers that increase our understanding of how the brain works in health and in disease. Progress in brain research has a direct influence on our daily lives. Stem cells could offer revolutionary treatments for brain disease, but research is hampered by controversy. Brain imaging could one day make it possible to read someone’s mind, but should we use this technology in a courtroom? If you could design your baby to prevent it from becoming mentally ill later in life, would you? it is more vital than ever that scientists and the public have the chance to discuss the issues. But brain research is not just about understanding the healthy brain. Autism, depression, traumatic injuries to the brain and spinal cord, drug and alcohol addiction, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and other brain-related conditions strike at human, capacities essential to living. Diseases and disorders of the brain are some of neuroscience’s biggest challenges. Across Europe, 127 million people (over a quarter of the population) are affected by at least one brain disease. These diseases include Alzheimer´s disease, head injury, motor neurone disease, pain, drug and alcohol addiction, dyslexia, and many others. With ‘Mindstake’ we propose to create a bridge between neuroscience research projects and the public with an appropriate mediation work.