Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Each neuron works only as a part of a much bigger population. Understanding the basic structure of neuronal population patterns will provide insights into the most fundamental properties of brain function. While most electrophysiological research has concentrated on the single neuron or small neuronal groups, the novelty of this proposal is to explore interactions among hundreds of neurons recorded simultaneously. In this proposal I will provide new electrophysiological population data and new computational methods to study this population activity in anesthetized and awake rats. In particular I will focus on two complementary objectives: 1) How do hundreds of neurons work together? and; 2) How to analyze data from hundreds of neurons? To accomplish these objectives, I will record simultaneously the activity of 50-500 neurons in the auditory cortex using silicon microelectrodes, and I will develop methods capable of describing complex relations between large groups of neurons. I will use sophisticated data analysis methods to investigate the structure of neuronal population patterns, the complexity of the patterns, and how ensembles of neurons process information about stimuli in sensory cortices. By investigating these basic research questions I will provide critical information for understanding the fundamental properties of neuronal populations involved in sensory processing. My proven record in both acquiring electrophysiological data from hundreds of neurons simultaneously and in developing sophisticated data analysis methods to understand neuronal interactions is unique in Canada. Therefore, it provides new research approaches and new opportunities to train students in these cutting-edge technologies and theoretical methods.