New model on synapse offered

CHEVY CHASE, Md., Jul 15, 2005 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Scientists at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute in Chevy Chase, Md., have devised a brain model that may help in understanding neurological diseases.

The model is a detailed three-dimensional terrain map of a synapse, which is the junction between neurons and is critical for communication in the brain and nervous system.

The "nano-map" shows the tiny spines and valleys resolved at nanometer scale, or one-billionth of a meter, the institute said.

The map already proven its worth in changing scientists' views of the synaptic landscape, the announcement said.

Terrence Sejnowski, who led the research effort said, said the new 3-D modeling technique could offer a powerful tool for understanding neurological disease.

The research was published in the July 15 issue of the journal Science.