Scientists uncover a hidden map of the brain with 539 distinct regions

Scientists have uncovered a hidden layer of organization in the brain by creating the first detailed 3D map of its lipids, the fatty molecules essential for brain structure and communication. By analyzing millions of measurements from mouse brains, researchers identified 539 distinct chemical zones, revealing patterns and boundaries that traditional brain maps have missed. Surprisingly, even white matter, once thought to be relatively uniform, contains a complex patchwork of chemically distinct regions.

Scientists uncover a hidden map of the brain with 539 distinct regions. Dots are enlarged for visualization purposes. 0 Scientists have spent decades studying the brain’s cells, connections, genes, and proteins.

Yet another essential part of brain biology has received far less attention: lipids. These fatty molecules make up the membranes surrounding neurons, contribute to the myelin insulation that protects nerve fibers, and play important roles in communication between brain cells. Although lipids are fundamental to brain function, scientists have struggled to map where different types are located.