Grant: CIHR Café Scientifique Program

Over the past decade, scientists have been exploring the implications of brain plasticity: the relatively new knowledge that our brain's neural pathways change to compensate for illness or trauma, or to respond to changes in the environment. The idea of brain plasticity has captured the public's imagination with popular books such as The Brain that Changes Itself as well as electronic "brain training" programs that promise enhanced mental skills and protection against cognitive declines with age. Brain plasticity also holds potential in the prevention or treatment of mental illness or addictions. Scientists are unraveling how the complex interplay between a person's biological factors combine with life experiences such as trauma to lead to changes in the brain and the development of mental illness. In recent years, the pace of research into brain function has greatly accelerated, due to new technologies and techniques such as next-generation genetic sequencing equipment, non-invasive brain stimulation and advanced brain imaging technologies. Advances will continue, given global investments into brain research. In spring 2013 alone, the European Commission announced €150 million for 20 brain projects, while U.S. President Obama launched a US $100 million initiative to map the brain. At the same time, there is much greater interest and openness among the public and media on mental illness than even a decade ago. Therefore, a café on brain plasticity applied to mental health would be timely and would support CIHR's objectives. Audience members would hear about advances on a topic of current public interest. The café would demonstrate that CIHR is committed to supporting Canadian scientists who are at the vanguard of this research. Finally, it would show how growing knowledge of neuroplasticity is being translated into clinical treatment approaches, with tangible benefits for people with mental illness.