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Project
Characterization of the distinct impact of one-eyed vision on monocular cortex: a molecular, cellular and systems level analysis of cross-modal brain plasticity in the adult mouse.
One of the best-studied examples of experience- and age-dependent modifications of neuronal
circuits in the brain is ocular dominance plasticity. Although it is involved in the reactivation of the
binocular visual cortex after the loss of one eye, it does not explain the recovery of the
simultaneously deprived monocular zone. This suggests brain region-specific modifications of the
circuitry and/or molecular pathways to cope with the sensory deprivation. Cross-modal plasticity
through other sensory modalities can reactivate deprived cortex but the anatomical pathways are
not known in detail. In this project, we will identify their precise location to perform pathwayspecific
activation and inactivation in order to determine the exact contribution of whisker inputs to
the activation of visually deprived areas in the mouse. We will also determine the underlying
molecular mechanisms responsible for the observed cortical zone-specific recovery in order to
identify potential pharmacological targets to potentiate/suppress cross-modal inputs. Their
behavioral relevance will also be investigated. In sum, this project will thus shed light on the
structural, molecular, functional and behavioral aspects of cross-modal plasticity in the mammalian
brain as a basis towards effective therapy for multisensory integration deficits.
Date:1 Jan 2016 → 31 Dec 2019
Keywords:NEUROPLASTICITY, NEUROSCIENCE
Disciplines:Animal biology, Genetics, Neurosciences, Veterinary medicine, Biological and physiological psychology, Cognitive science and intelligent systems, Developmental psychology and ageing
Project type:Collaboration project