This image shows projections from the locus coeruleus, a noradrenergic brainstem nucleus, forming an extensive network throughout the brain. Assignation of projection axons by target region reveals an architecture of distinct fibre trajectories consistent with a potential modular organization that can provide semi-global or even highly targeted neuromodulation, in addition to controlling global noradrenaline. For more information, see the Symposium review article by Chandler et al. (pages 8239–8249).