A central challenge for neuroscience is determining how experience shapes the functional properties of the central nervous system. The auditory localization pathway in barn owls represents the associations of auditory cues with locations in space as neurophysiological maps. Previous research has shown that experience shapes these maps powerfully in juveniles, but has little effect in adults. Because of its exquisite precision, the auditory localization system has proven to be an excellent model for investigating the instructive role experience plays in determining neural function. The proposed research will employ behavioral, pharmacological, and electrophysiological techniques to investigate principles that govern auditory plasticity. Particular attention will be paid to techniques that increase plasticity in adults. Understanding the cellular mechanisms that underlie adaptive plasticity is an important step towards formulating optimal therapies for rehabilitation following injury to the central nervous system. ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31DC007813-02
Application #
7117672
Study Section
Communication Disorders Review Committee (CDRC)
Program Officer
Sklare, Dan
Project Start
2005-09-01
Project End
2007-02-28
Budget Start
2006-09-01
Budget End
2007-02-28
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2006
Total Cost
$21,371
Indirect Cost
Name
Stanford University
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
009214214
City
Stanford
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94305