Nenad Sestan

Nenad Šestan

Nationality	Croatian-American
Known for	Brain research, BrainEx

Nenad Šestan is a prominent neuroscientist known for his groundbreaking research in the field of brain science. He is a professor at Yale University and has made significant contributions to our understanding of the human brain, particularly in the areas of brain development and the preservation of brain function after death.

Early Life and Education

Nenad Šestan was born in Croatia and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Zagreb. He later moved to the United States to pursue his doctoral studies at Yale University, where he earned his Ph.D. in neuroscience. His early research focused on the development of the cerebral cortex, the part of the brain responsible for higher-order functions such as perception, cognition, and motor control.

Research and Contributions

Šestan's research has primarily focused on the development and function of the cerebral cortex. He has investigated how different types of neurons are generated and how they form complex networks that underlie brain function. His work has provided insights into the molecular and genetic mechanisms that control brain development and has implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.

BrainEx Project

One of Šestan's most notable contributions is the development of the BrainEx technology, a system designed to restore and preserve brain function in post-mortem brains. In a landmark study published in 2019, Šestan and his team demonstrated that it was possible to restore some cellular functions in the brains of pigs several hours after death. This research has profound implications for the fields of neuroscience, medicine, and ethics, as it challenges the traditional understanding of brain death and opens new avenues for studying the brain in unprecedented ways.

Ethical Considerations

Šestan's work with BrainEx has sparked significant ethical debate. The ability to restore cellular function in a dead brain raises questions about the definition of death, the potential for brain resuscitation, and the ethical treatment of brain tissue. Šestan has been actively involved in discussions with ethicists, legal experts, and the public to address these concerns and ensure that his research is conducted responsibly.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Nenad Šestan has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to neuroscience. He is a member of several prestigious scientific organizations and has been recognized for his innovative research and leadership in the field.

Also see

• Neuroscience
• Brain development
• Neuroethics
• Cerebral cortex
• Neurodevelopmental disorders