What is the physical connectome?

The physical connectome refers to the comprehensive mapping of neuronal connections within the brain at an extremely fine scale. This mapping attempts to detail the structure of nervous tissue down to the level of individual synapses and even smaller components like synaptic vesicles. Essentially, it aims to create a complete "wiring diagram" of how neurons connect and communicate within a chunk of nervous tissue. This work is extremely ambitious and uses advanced technologies like electron microscopy to achieve high-resolution imaging, offering profound insights into the connectivity of the nervous system 1.

The term "connectome" derives from a similar methodology used in genomics, which involves sequencing and mapping the entire genome. Similarly, a connectome encompasses an exhaustive description of all synapses and neuronal connections within a particular area of brain tissue 1. The Human Connectome Project is an ongoing effort that highlights these connections and facilitates research into brain functions and disorders 2.