Whole-brain networks for sensorimotor gating and behavioural choice
Speaker: Professor Ethan Scott
Department of Anatomy and Physiology
University of Melbourne
Whole-brain networks for sensorimotor gating and behavioural choice
Abstract:
A fundamental challenge to understanding the brain is its complexity: its genetic and developmental programs, its neurons and connections, its balance of permanence and plasticity, and the nuanced information flow through its networks. Across biology, emerging technologies are revolutionising the scope and scale at which we can address such questions. Our group has developed technologies for studying brain-wide sensory networks using calcium imaging and house-built light-sheet microscopes. Because zebrafish larvae are small and transparent, we can image tens of thousands of neurons, simultaneously and individually, as animals perceive stimuli and choose behavioural responses.
In this presentation, I will provide examples of studies from the visual and auditory systems where we have identified network-scale alterations that occur during sensory learning or found sensory phenotypes in genetic models of neuropsychiatric conditions. I will also discuss emerging mathematical and network modelling approaches that we are incorporating to better understand these functioning networks and the significance of the alterations that we have described. I will highlight both the benefits and the limitations of current whole-brain functional approaches in zebrafish and will discuss complementary big-data approaches, such as large microanatomical datasets and spatial transcriptomics, that could help to address current shortcomings.
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 on Level 7 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.
