Dendrites play a central role in neuronal information processing by integrating thousands of synaptic inputs to generate a meaningful action potential output. Recent advances in molecular, electrophysiological and in vivo imaging techniques have led to a rapid enhancement in our understanding of the mechanisms that shape dendritic structure, function and connectivity. Such multifaceted approaches have further demonstrated the extent to which dendrite structure and function may undergo plastic changes that contribute to development, learning and neurodegenerative disease. This Gordon conference will bring together researchers whose latest findings help clarify how the molecular and cellular properties of dendrites enable them to perform complex computations important for sensory processing and higher cognitive function. The conference will be of interest to researchers and students in neuroscience, as well as to anyone interested in normal and abnormal brain function.
Neuronal dendrites are important for the active and passive processing of synaptic inputs to regulate information flow through neural circuits. This Gordon Research Conference and Seminar will bring together investigators at all levels, collectively applying a diversity of approaches from molecules to behavior to studying dendritic structure and function in health and in disease. The meeting will highlight the latest advances in our understanding of the molecular, cellular and circuit changes underlying the normal construction and function of dendrites, with an emphasis on dendritic dysfunction in neurodegenerative disease. NOTE: The critiques and criterion scores from individual reviewers are provided below in an essentially unedited form. These were prepared prior to the review meeting and may not have been updated or revised subsequent to the discussion at the meeting. Therefore, they may not fully reflect the final opinions of the individual reviewers at the close of group discussion or th final majority opinion of the group. The Resume and Summary of Discussion above summarizes the final outcome of the group discussion.
