Yegor Prokhorchuk, Director of the Institute of Biomedicine (MBF), made an introductory speech. He noted the importance of this topic and stressed that issues related to brain function, intelligence and creativity are of great importance both for fundamental science and for the development of modern medical approaches.

Varvara Dyakonova cited data that indicate a correlation between high intelligence, creative abilities and an increased risk of certain mental disorders. It has been noted that people with high verbal IQ and creative personalities are more likely to have certain characteristics.

Sergey Lukyanov, Rector of Pirogov University, addressed the participants of the meeting, stressing that Pirogov University is actively engaged in studying the problems of the nervous system.

"We are currently conducting large—scale projects aimed at developing innovative strategies for the treatment of depression, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and a number of other pathologies," said Sergey Anatolyevich Lukyanov.

During the lecture, it was emphasized that the reason is the active work of neurons, which is accompanied by DNA breaks. These damages occur not only under stress, but also during normal physiological activity, as well as during stimulation of individual neurons. These processes also affect aging: the higher the neuronal activity, the faster DNA damage accumulates and the shorter the life span.

The lecture ended with a lively discussion, during which the participants expressed many different opinions and ideas.

Photos from the event can be found in the album.