IIT Madras centre creates 3D maps of 100 human brains from foetus to 85-year-olds
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims + Mains·
Neuroscience and biotechnology: a GS3 case study on high-resolution mapping for precision medicine.
Why in news
The Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre at IIT Madras launched a project to create 3D maps of 100 human brains from foetus to 85-year-olds to understand cellular-level structural changes across the lifespan.
Background
The project, led by Professor Mohanashankar Sivaprakasam, uses sections between 10 and 20 microns to reconstruct 3D models. It aims to create a reference map of brain structures and cells to aid in understanding diseases and planning surgeries.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TSudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre is located at IIT Madras.
- FactThe project involves mapping 100 human brains ranging from foetus to 85-year-olds.
- FactBrain sections for mapping are between 10 and 20 microns thick.
- FactAn adult brain can yield between 8,000 and 10,000 sections for mapping.
- BodyThe centre collaborated with over 10 institutions, including CMC Vellore, and released DHARANI and C-STROKE in 2025.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the brain mapping project at IIT Madras, consider the following statements:
- The project aims to aid in understanding diseases and planning surgeries.
- The brain sections used for reconstructing 3D models are between 30 and 40 microns thick.
- The project aims to create 3D maps of 100 human brains ranging from foetus to 85-year-olds.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only — Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Statement 2 is incorrect: The sections are between 10 and 20 microns thick.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how high-resolution neuro-mapping and cellular-level structural analysis can revolutionize personalized medicine and surgical planning in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Diagnostic precision: Transitioning from conventional living-patient imaging to high-resolution cellular reference maps for disease pathology.
- Neuro-evolutionary research: Addressing the lack of longitudinal data on brain structural changes from foetus to old age.
- Technological sovereignty: Development of indigenous industrial-scale sectioning and imaging systems for neuroscience.
Keywords: Neuroscience · Cellular Resolution · 3D Mapping · Biotechnology · Precision Medicine
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