Ann Graybiel

Ann Graybiel 2001

Ann Graybiel is a prominent American neuroscientist known for her pioneering research on the basal ganglia, a group of nuclei in the brain associated with a variety of functions including motor control, cognition, emotions, and learning. She is a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a member of the McGovern Institute for Brain Research.

Early Life and Education

Ann Graybiel was born in New York City. She earned her undergraduate degree from Harvard University and went on to complete her Ph.D. in Psychology and Neuroscience at MIT.

Research

Graybiel's research has significantly advanced the understanding of the basal ganglia and their role in habit formation, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and addiction. Her work has demonstrated how the basal ganglia are involved in the learning and execution of motor skills and habits, and how disruptions in these processes can lead to neurological disorders.

Basal Ganglia

The basal ganglia are a group of subcortical nuclei that play a crucial role in motor control and learning. Graybiel's research has shown that these structures are involved in the formation of habits and routines, and that they interact with other brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus.

Habit Formation

Graybiel's studies have revealed the neural mechanisms underlying habit formation. She has identified specific patterns of neural activity in the basal ganglia that correspond to the learning and execution of habitual behaviors. This work has important implications for understanding how habits are formed and how they can be modified or disrupted.

Neurological Disorders

Graybiel's research has also contributed to the understanding of various neurological disorders. Her work on Parkinson's disease has provided insights into how the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the basal ganglia leads to motor symptoms such as tremors and rigidity. Similarly, her studies on Huntington's disease have shed light on the genetic and neural mechanisms underlying this condition.

Awards and Honors

Ann Graybiel has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to neuroscience. These include the National Medal of Science, the Kavli Prize in Neuroscience, and election to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Selected Publications

• Graybiel, A. M. (Year). Title of the publication. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page numbers.
• Graybiel, A. M. (Year). Title of the publication. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page numbers.

See Also

• Neuroscience
• Basal ganglia
• Parkinson's disease
• Huntington's disease
• Habit formation