Dr Matilde Balbi - QBI : "Effects of brain oscillations on recovery after stroke"
Speaker: Dr Matilde Balbi
Queensland Brain Institute
University of Queensland
Title: Effects of brain oscillations on recovery after stroke
Brain oscillations, particularly at 40 Hz, demonstrate neuroprotective properties, with potential for enhancing functional recovery following stroke. We discovered that 40 Hz optogenetic stimulation of inhibitory neurons not only induces coherent oscillatory activity locally but also rescues functional plasticity, local and interregional communication, and motor function. We observed a downregulation in genes associated with cell death, a reduction in astrogliosis, and a preservation of neurons that collectively suggest a mechanism of recovery mediated by preventing neuronal loss rather than through new synapse formation. Moreover, non-invasive modalities such as visual and electrical 40 Hz stimulation in acute post-stroke phases show promise in improving interregional connectivity, motor performance, and survival outcomes. These findings set a precedent for considering brain oscillatory activity as a therapeutic target for enhancing recovery after stroke.
About Neuroscience Seminars
Neuroscience seminars at the QBI play a major role in the advancement of neuroscience in the Asia-Pacific region. The primary goal of these seminars is to promote excellence in neuroscience through the exchange of ideas, establishing new collaborations and augmenting partnerships already in place.
Seminars in the QBI Auditorium are held on Wednesdays at 12-1pm, which are sometimes simulcast on Zoom (with approval from the speaker). We also occassionally hold seminars from international speakers via Zoom. The days and times of these seminars will vary depending on the time zone of the speaker. Please see each seminar listed below for details.
