Why Teens Tune Out: The Science Behind Selective Hearing - Neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski speaks to host Andy Park on ABC RN Drive

This episode explores the intriguing phenomenon of selective hearing in teenagers, particularly focusing on why they may not respond to their mother's voice. Neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski discusses research from Stanford University that examines brain activity in children and teenagers when listening to their mother's voice versus unfamiliar voices. The findings reveal significant differences in brain responses pre- and post-puberty, suggesting evolutionary reasons for these changes.

teenagers, selective hearing, neuroscience, brain activity, puberty, evolutionary psychology

• Teenagers often exhibit selective hearing, especially towards their mother's voice.
• Research from Stanford University used MRI to study brain activity in children and teenagers.
• Pre-puberty children show increased brain activity in reward and social value areas when hearing their mother's voice.
• Teenagers' brains respond more to unfamiliar voices than to their mother's voice.
• The use of made-up words in the study helps isolate the brain's response to voice rather than word meaning.
• The age of 13 is critical for changes in brain response to familiar versus unfamiliar voices.
• Evolutionary psychology suggests this change aids in independence and social learning.
• Hormonal changes during puberty contribute to shifts in brain activity and behavior.
• The desire to distance from parents during puberty is linked to survival and reproduction instincts.
• Caveman behavior parallels modern teenage behavior in terms of communication and social dynamics.

This is the extended version of an episode which aired live on the ABC Radio National Health Report.

https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport/improving-stroke-research/11515796

Summary

This conversation explores the personal experience of a stroke survivor, the complexities of stroke treatment, the challenges in biomedical research, and the ethical considerations surrounding animal testing. It highlights the need for improved research methodologies and the importance of recovery in the journey after a stroke.

Guests:
Adrian O'Malley
Stroke patient
Professor David Howells
Professor of Neuroscience and Brain Plasticity, University of Tasmania
Dr Alexandra Bannach-Brown
Research Fellow, Bond University

Consultant in Laboratory Animal Care and Management
Reporter:
Dr Lila Landowski. This episode was generated as part of Dr Lila Landowski's ABC Top 5 Scientist Media Residency.
Host:
James Bullen
Producer:
Joel Werner, Carl Smith, Diane Dean

Takeaways

Coordination issues can signal a stroke emergency.

Stroke can lead to lifelong disabilities without proper treatment.

TPA is the only drug for ischemic strokes but has strict eligibility criteria.

70% of patients may not benefit from TPA even if administered.

Research waste in biomedical science is a significant issue.

Improving drug testing methods can lead to better stroke treatments.

Animal models of stroke need to be more representative of human conditions.

The three R's of animal testing are replacement, reduction, and refinement.

Quality research foundations are crucial for effective treatment development.

Recovery from stroke is a collaborative effort involving family support.

Chapters

00:00 The Day That Changed Everything

02:45 Understanding Stroke and Its Impact

05:54 The Quest for Better Stroke Treatments

08:55 Improving Research Models for Stroke

10:22 The Importance of Collaboration in Recovery

Keywords: stroke, treatment, research, biomedical science, recovery, TPA, animal testing, research waste, neuroscience, health

The 2025 Australasian Neuroscience Society Conference landed in Dr Lila Landowski’s hometown of Hobart—and with so many brilliant researchers descending on the city, she couldn’t resist getting them on the mic to share what they’re working on.

This segment is a little different to the usual: you won't hear much from Lila, and instead, you’ll hear from five Australian neuroscientists, each giving a snapshot of their fascinating research.

1. Professor Jason Mattingly- President of the Australasian Neuroscience Society & University of Queensland/Queensland Brain Institute
2. Dr Carly Cullen- University of Queensland, Mater Research Institute.
3. Professor Anthony Hannan- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health
4. Aelon Rahmani - Flinders University
5. Dr. Kirsten Coupland- University of Newcastle.

Summary

The conversation revolves around the Australasian Neuroscience Society Conference, highlighting various research topics in neuroscience, including sensory processing, myelin biology, anxiety disorders, and the role of cerebrospinal fluid in brain health. The speakers share their insights and experiences, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and discovery in the field of neuroscience.

Chapters

00:00 Dr Lila Landowski: The Conference Theme

02:46 Prof Jason Mattingley: Understanding Sensory Processing and Attention

05:56 Dr Carly Cullen, Mater Research Institute: Exploring Myelin and Brain Repair

08:45 Modeling Anxiety Disorders in Rodents

11:32 The Role of Immune Activation in Brain Health

14:43 Cerebrospinal Fluid: The Brain's Cleaning Mechanism

Keywords: neuroscience, brain research, attention, myelin, anxiety disorders, cerebrospinal fluid, Australasian Neuroscience Society, neurological conditions, mental health, scientific discovery

Minds Under Siege: Your Brain in the digital era with neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski

Lila spoke to Kylie Baxter live on ABC Radio Hobart Drive program on 6 August 2025

Dr Lila Landowski

• Neuroscientist and Senior Lecturer, UTAS;

• Vice President and Director, Science & Technology Australia;

• Fides Member, World Health Organisation

• Opinions and perspectives shared here are Lila's, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the organisations she works for and represents.

Keywords

technology, AI, mental health, social media, neuroscience, brain development, face-to-face communication, cognitive skills, sensory overload, human connection

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Lila Landosky, a neuroscientist, discusses the profound effects of technology, particularly AI and social media, on human cognition and mental health. She highlights how advancements in technology have historically allowed humans to develop skills and communities but raises concerns about the current reliance on AI and social media, which may hinder cognitive development and social interactions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication for mental well-being and the risks of sensory overload in our technology-driven lives.

Takeaways

The brain adapts to efficiency, impacting skill development.

AI may reduce our cognitive engagement over time.

Social media usage correlates with decreased face-to-face interactions.

Lack of socialization can lead to increased anxiety and depression.

Face-to-face communication enhances brain synchrony and well-being.

Sensory overload can lead to stress and anxiety.

Historical advancements in tools have shaped human development.

Technology can both aid and hinder our cognitive abilities.

Engaging with real humans is vital for mental health.

Our reliance on technology is changing our social landscape

Debunking Brain Myths: we use more than 10% of our brain, the left-right brain conundrum, the truth about learning styles: neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski chats to host Helen Shield on ABC Radio

Keywords

brain myths, learning styles, neuroscience, education, intelligence, brain games, memory, teaching methods, cognitive science, psychology

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Lila Landowski, neuroscientist, discusses various myths surrounding brain function and learning. She debunks the myth that we only use 10% of our brains, explaining that all parts of the brain are active at different times. The discussion also covers the misconceptions about left-brain versus right-brain functions, the lack of evidence supporting different learning styles, and the limited benefits of brain games. Dr. Landowski emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to learning and teaching.

Takeaways

The idea that we only use 10% of our brains is false.

All parts of the brain are activated at different times.

Left and right brain functions are more integrated than separate.

The hippocampus plays a crucial role in memory.

There is no correlation between brain size and intelligence.

Different learning styles do not guarantee better comprehension.

Incorporating various learning methods is beneficial for all students.

Brain games improve specific skills but do not increase overall intelligence.

The corpus callosum connects the two brain hemispheres for better communication.

Understanding brain function can improve teaching methods.

Dr Lila Landowski

• Neuroscientist and Senior Lecturer, UTAS;
• Vice President and Director, Science & Technology Australia;
• Fides Member, World Health Organisation
• Opinions and perspectives shared here are Lila's, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the organisations she works for and represents.

Rejuvenating Memory: The Science of Young CSF, Insights from Mice Studies - with Neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski on ABC Radio National Drive hosted by Andy Park

This episode delves into groundbreaking research on memory improvement in mice, exploring how cerebrospinal fluid from young mice can rejuvenate the memory of older mice. Neuroscientist Lila Landowski discusses the role of fibroblast growth factor 17 in enhancing brain function, drawing parallels to the potential implications for human brain health.

memory improvement, cerebrospinal fluid, fibroblast growth factor 17, neuroscience, brain health, mice research

• Cerebrospinal fluid from young mice can rejuvenate older mice's memory.
• Fibroblast growth factor 17 mimics the effects of young cerebrospinal fluid.
• The hippocampus is crucial for memory improvement in mice.
• Oligodendrocytes play a key role in neuron efficiency and memory.

• The study highlights potential implications for human brain health.
• Cerebrospinal fluid changes with age, impacting brain function.
• The research offers a direct method to influence brain health.
• Young blood studies in mice show similar rejuvenating effects.
• The findings open discussions on ethical implications in research.

Neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski speaks on ABC Radio National Drive with Andy Park, discussing three new studies - one on the selective hearing of teens, improving memory in old mice, and PFAS in firefighters

Keywords

neuroscience, aging, memory, teenagers, selective hearing, blood donation, fibroblast growth factor, cerebrospinal fluid, oligodendrocytes, PFAS

Summary

In this conversation, neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski discusses groundbreaking research on aging, memory enhancement, and the unique auditory processing of teenagers. She explains how specific proteins can rejuvenate memory in older mice and explores the shift in teenagers' responses to their mothers' voices as they approach puberty. Additionally, she highlights the health benefits of blood donation, particularly in reducing harmful chemicals in the bloodstream.

Takeaways

Fibroblast growth factor 17 can enhance memory in older mice.

Cerebrospinal fluid plays a crucial role in brain function.

Teenagers' brains prioritize social voices over their mother's voice.

The age of 13 marks a significant change in auditory processing.

Independence during adolescence is linked to evolutionary survival.

Blood donation can help eliminate harmful forever chemicals.

Oligodendrocytes are essential for efficient brain function.

The brain's reward pathways change during puberty.

Research shows the importance of social learning in adolescence.

Donating blood has personal health benefits beyond societal contributions.

Titles

Unlocking the Secrets of Memory and Aging

Teenage Hearing: The Shift from Mom to Social Voices

Chapters

01:46 Neuroscience of Aging and Memory

04:47 Teenagers and Selective Hearing

07:37 The Benefits of Blood Donation

220518

12 questions to help you assess your dementia risk with neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski - aired on 24 September 2024 on ABC Radio National Drive with Andy Park

Take The New York Times quiz: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/09/03/well/mind/brain-health-quiz-dementia-depression-stroke.html

1. Has a health care provider ever told you that your blood pressure is high?
2. Has a health care provider ever told you that your blood sugar is high or your hemoglobin A1c is elevated?
3. Has a health care provider ever told you that your cholesterol is elevated and that you need to take a daily medication to treat it?
4. What is your B.M.I.?
5. What does your typical diet include? Select all that apply.
6. How many alcoholic drinks do you consume per week
7. Do you smoke cigarettes?
8. Do you engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of high intensity physical activity per week?
9. What are your typical sleep habits? Select the option that best fits.
10. How are your stress levels?
11. Do you have close connections, other than your spouse or children, with whom you could talk about private matters, or call upon for help?
12. Do you feel that your life has meaning or purpose?

Keywords

brain health, diet, alcohol, social connections, stress, neurological diseases, cognitive function, mental health, lifestyle choices, neuroscience

Summary

In this conversation, neuroscientist Dr. Lila Landowski, a neuroscientist, discusses the importance of brain health and how lifestyle choices can impact cognitive function. The discussion covers a quiz that assesses brain health, the effects of diet, alcohol consumption, social connections, and stress on neurological well-being. Dr. Landowski emphasizes that many factors influencing brain health are within our control, encouraging listeners to make informed lifestyle choices to enhance their cognitive health.

Takeaways

Looking after your physical health is straightforward, but brain health requires specific attention.

A quiz can help assess your brain health and risk for neurological diseases.

Diet plays a crucial role in brain health, particularly the consumption of whole foods and fiber.

High sugar intake can reduce the production of new brain cells.

Alcohol consumption, even in moderation, can negatively impact brain health.

Social connections are vital for maintaining mental health and reducing stress.

Chronic stress can lead to significant cognitive decline and emotional issues.

Making informed lifestyle choices can improve brain health and cognitive function.

Understanding your brain health score can empower you to make positive changes.

The conversation highlights that many aspects of brain health are changeable and within our control.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Brain Health

04:24 The Impact of Diet on Brain Function

09:00 The Role of Social Connections and Stress

12:33 Empowerment Through Knowledge