Unit outline

Research

Abstract

The overall aim of this research is to advance understanding of the brain mechanisms underlying learning and adaptive behaviour. The basal ganglia are a set of forebrain nuclei thought to play a key role in adaptive behaviour through the selection of actions, goals and strategies on the basis of previous reward-related learning. The basal ganglia are also involved in major neurological and behavioural disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Central issues in basal ganglia research include the manner in which the cortical input to the basal ganglia is processed and how neuromodulators such as dopamine and adenosine modify and influence the operations performed on the cortical inputs. The core strengths of the unit are in cellular electrophysiology and computational neuroscience, with strong collaborative relationships in behavioural analysis, neuroanatomy, systems physiology and clinical psychology. The research has the forward goal of informing the development of better treatments for the debilitating neurological and behavioural disorders of the basal ganglia, which are of such importance to both children and adults.

Research Goals

The overall goal is to advance understanding of the brain mechanisms underlying learning and adaptive behaviour, and major neurological and behavioural disorders, by determining and dissecting their cellular mechanisms. Experimental and computational approaches are used. Ongoing research emphasizes: 1) molecular mechanisms underlying rules for synaptic plasticity in the corticostriatal pathway 2) synaptic interactions and network dynamics underlying information processing operations in basal ganglia microcircuitry; 3) behavioural neurobiology in animal models of neuropsychiatric disorders; and 4) novel treatments for Parkinson’s disease and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Strategies

We use a multidisciplinary approach, with strong collaborative links. Key techniques are whole-cell recording from single neurons and pairs of neurons; optical imaging of network dynamics in brain slices and cultured networks; 2-photon imaging of plasticity mechanisms in dendritic spines; in vivo electrochemistry; and behavioural analysis. We maintain strong collaborative relationships with leading researchers in behavioural analysis, neuroanatomy, systems physiology and clinical psychology. Computational neurobiology is a central tool in all aspects of the experimental research, and conversely, is informed and improved by experimental data.