Objective "During development, neuronal connectivity is initially established by genetically determined intrinsic factors, e.g. molecular cues and spontaneous activity, generating networks according to a ""best guess"" strategy. However, with the appearance of sensory organs, external inputs will refine these connections, allowing adaptation to the environment. In the Xenopus developing visual system, repetitive moving visual stimuli induce long lasting changes in the direction-sensitivity of some tectal neurons, apparently via modification of synaptic strength. However, it is still unknown how this synaptic plasticity contributes to the refinement of neural circuits for precise information processing and adjustment of animal’s behaviours. Using a multidisciplinary approach combining cutting-edge genetic engineering methods to monitor and manipulate activity of specific neurons or entire circuits, development of novel mathematical and computational methods and kinematic analyses of motor behaviours, I will investigate how sensory visual experience may affect the activity and interaction of the optic tectum neuronal circuit and motor behaviour. These experiments will contribute to our understanding of the role of sensory experience in shaping the development of neural circuits and animal behaviour. They will also shed light into the mechanisms by which the nervous system self wires, adapts, and learns. The study of these mechanisms might contribute to the design of new therapeutic treatments for developmental disorders associated with impaired nerve connections." Fields of science natural sciencesbiological sciencesneurobiologymedical and health sciencesmedical biotechnologygenetic engineeringnatural sciencescomputer and information sciencescomputational sciencenatural sciencesbiological sciencesbiological behavioural sciencesethologynatural sciencescomputer and information sciencesdata sciencedata processing Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-IRG-2008 - Marie Curie Action: "International Reintegration Grants" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-IRG-2008 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IRG - International Re-integration Grants (IRG) Coordinator INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA SANTE ET DE LA RECHERCHE MEDICALE Address Rue de tolbiac 101 75654 Paris France See on map Region Ile-de-France Ile-de-France Paris Activity type Research Organisations Administrative Contact Marie-Pascale Martel (Ms.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window EU contribution € 100 000,00
