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Project

Oscillatory activity in large-scale brain networks and its relevance to behavior

Large part of cerebral processes associated with our actions and thoughts is implemented through synchronised oscillations of group of neurons in distant brain regions. So far, the understanding of oscillatory activity in large-scale brain networks is far from complete, concerning both the phenomena and biological function. Our main goal is to address this issue, and to better understand the link between long-range neuronal synchronisation and behaviour. Accordingly, we will develop and apply advanced techniques for the analysis of brain imaging data, collected by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG). First, we will determine  brain networks from EEG data and examine the spatial correspondence with those retrieved using fMRI. We will also use a combined EEG-fMRI approach to clarify the relationship between functional interactions in the brain estimated from electrophysiological and hemodynamic  measures. We will then focus on EEG connectivity to investigate how brain areas in a network dynamically exchange information. Finally, we will examine whether and how oscillatory activity in  rain networks can be transiently altered by non-invasive brain stimulation, and investigate the causal link of these alterations to changes in task performance. Overall, this research will permit to understand which neuronal oscillations most strongly contribute to long-range interactions in the brain and will reveal how these interactions mediate behaviour.

 

Date:1 Jan 2017 →  31 Dec 2021
Keywords:Oscillatory activity, large-scale brain networks, behavior
Disciplines:Neurosciences, Biological and physiological psychology, Cognitive science and intelligent systems, Developmental psychology and ageing