Cel We propose to study intrinsic cortical network activity in-vitro. It is already known that the cerebral cortex, both in-vivo and in-vitro, produces spontaneous patterns of electrical activity independently of extrinsic inputs. These consist of network-induced prolonged depolarizations & action potentials (UP states), alternating with periods of synaptic withdrawal, membrane hyperpolarization and cessation of firing (DOWN states). It is precisely on such endogenous activity that all external inputs act, namely sensory information and/or neuromodulation. It is also increasingly evident that certain mental disorders are associated, not with specific brain lesions or cellular degeneration, but with abnormal cortical activity. Hence, this endogenous activity is crucial for our understanding of cortical information processing. To present, the generation and development of intrinsic discharge patterns and their interaction with external inputs are poorly understood. Here we propose to use brain slices to study the ontogeny and susceptibility to neuromodulation of spontaneous slow oscillations (UP/DOWN states) and persistent activity (evoked UP states) of different cortical regions. We will first compare the development of spontaneous slow oscillations in distinct cortical areas, from prenatal ages to adulthood. This is a novel and essential first step towards understanding the functional differentiation of the cortex, and identifying the possible onset of abnormal network activity during disease. We will then examine how neuromodulators, that gate distinct information processing brain states, affect spontaneous and evoked UP states in thalamocortical slices from adult animals. These data will help clarify how behaviourally distinct brain states affect intrinsic cortical dynamics. This grant will enable the applicant, a worldwide expert in this in-vitro model, to bring the know-how to Europe and continue his training and research in the European Community. Dziedzina nauki medical and health sciencesclinical medicinepsychiatrynatural sciencescomputer and information sciencesdata sciencedata processing Program(-y) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Temat(-y) FP7-PEOPLE-2009-RG - Marie Curie Action: "Reintegration Grants" Zaproszenie do składania wniosków FP7-PEOPLE-2009-RG Zobacz inne projekty w ramach tego zaproszenia System finansowania MC-IRG - International Re-integration Grants (IRG) Koordynator IDRYMA IATROVIOLOGIKON EREUNON AKADEMIAS ATHINON Wkład UE € 100 000,00 Adres SORANOU EFESIOU 4 115 27 Athina Grecja Zobacz na mapie Region Αττική Aττική Κεντρικός Τομέας Αθηνών Rodzaj działalności Research Organisations Kontakt administracyjny Dimitris Raptis (Mr.) Linki Kontakt z organizacją Opens in new window Strona internetowa Opens in new window Koszt całkowity Brak danych