Signal processing in the cells and circuits of somatosensory cortex.
In the real world, things change fast. As such, many sensory systems in mammals are tuned for the detection of rapidly changing stimuli. Here, the sense of touch in rodents is used to understand how the brain transforms rapidly changing stimuli into strong neuronal signals.
This study explains how responses to fast sensory stimuli depend on: properties of single neurons synaptic interactions between multiple neurons changes in these interactions induced by complex stimuli suppression of unstable sensory responses
The project uses an innovative combination of experimental and mathematical techniques, including a novel application of real-time computing - connecting real neurons in a living brain slice to virtual neurons simulated on a computer.
The study will also provide a unique research experience for students at many levels. Each of the research goals is accompanied by a specific educational vehicle to provide hands-on experience for students from high-school to graduate school. The intent is to foster an educational atmosphere that breaks down barriers between biology and mathematics, education and discovery, research and play.
Building the bridge from biophysics to behavior requires the development of new ideas and new techniques, such as those used here. More importantly, the best hope for the future lies in training the next generation of interdisciplinary scientists. For it is they who will carry the research forward, using the tools developed today for tomorrow's treatment of brain disorders and cognitive dysfunction.
