Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

The dynamical interactions of neurons form the basis of brain function. Neurons synchronize within and between different brain regions to produce rhythmic oscillations that vary during behavior. For instance, cortical high frequency 'gamma' oscillations increase with the difficulty of cognitive tasks in humans. The equipment described in this proposal will enable NSERC-funded researchers at the University of Lethbridge and their collaborators the ability to assess the cellular and network mechanisms that underlie synchronization and encoding of information. In particular, the contributions of the neuromodulator dopamine and inhibitory interneurons will be evaluated in brain slice preparations. This work will complement ongoing work in behaving animals and computational models to provide a cell-to-systems approach for investigating neural dynamics. The outcomes of this type of research hold great promise for advancing our knowledge of the cellular basis of cognitive function. Furthermore, this equipment will provide unique training opportunities as the only in vitro electrophysiology setup at the University of Lethbridge, and will endow highly qualified personnel with a marketable skill desired by laboratories in academic and industrial institutions.