Karl Deisseroth’s Big Idea: Decoding Brain Circuits to Understand the Human Mind

Lloyd Minor and Karl Deisseroth discuss how tools for mapping and controlling neural circuits are reshaping research on the human mind. Deisseroth recounts the development of optogenetics and its use in investigating the brain activity underlying emotion and behavior. They explore Stanford Medicine's Human Neural Circuitry research program and how advances in circuit-level neuroscience could improve understanding and treatment of mental illness. The conversation also considers scientific discovery and the importance of humility in research.