Award details

Neural network signalling, plasticity and learning

ReferenceBBS/E/B/0000C166
Principal Investigator / Supervisor Professor Keith Kendrick
Co-Investigators /
Co-Supervisors
Institution Babraham Institute
DepartmentBabraham Institute Department
Funding typeResearch
Value (£) 712,567
StatusCompleted
TypeInstitute Project
Start date 01/06/1999
End date 31/03/2011
Duration142 months

Abstract

We need to understand the mechanisms whereby the brain learns and remembers information to control cognitive and emotional behaviour if we are going to be able to develop therapies for treating cognitive dysfunction associated with developmental, psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. This project aims to use technologies for recording the activity of large-scale neural networks in the rodent brain combined with computational, mathematical and modelling approaches to help establish general principles of how learning alters the way information is encoded by these networks and the key signalling molecules involved. Neuronal cell culture approaches will also be used where appropriate. By developing modelling approaches we will be able to use computer simulations both to help interpret the biological data and to refine and reduce the requirement for animal experiments. This project directly addresses the BBSRC strategic research priority in 'Basic bioscience underpinning health' and will help develop new drug targets and pharmaceuticals to aid treatment of human cognitive disorders. By using an integrative, systems biology approach using mathematical tools and modelling to aid understanding of how learning alters signalling in large scale neural networks it also directly addresses the BBSRC enabling theme: 'Exploiting new ways of working'.

Summary

unavailable
Committee Closed Committee - Animal Sciences (AS)
Research TopicsNeuroscience and Behaviour
Research PriorityX – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative X - not in an Initiative
Funding SchemeX – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme
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