ABOUT

Neurons are Nature’s solution to fast and reliable information processing, and many neuroscience challenges can only be tackled by acknowledging this fact.

We are a multidisciplinary group focused on neuronal computation and neuronal circuits’ dynamics: the lab makes extensive use of electrophysiology methods, such as microelectrode arrays, functional imaging and microfluidics, to improve our understanding on how neurons encode, transmit, store and process information.

Together with expertise in machine learning and in silico neuroscience tools (e.g. modeling, advanced signal/image analysis and computer simulations), we also use and develop neuroengineering approaches (e.g. neuro-electronic interfaces) that help us reveal, and repair, neural function.

RESEARCH

Both neurobiology fundamental research and neuroengineering technological innovation are carried out in our group.

We use well-controlled in vitro/ex vivo systems, where with can monitor and modulate neural activity with high spatiotemporal resolution, to uncover and analyze the properties of neuronal circuits in either physiological or altered conditions. With our methodologies, we have been able to develop and validate novel microelectrodes technologies and show, for example, that bidirectional signal conduction is present in axons in neuronal cultures. We also use our combination of microelectrode arrays and microfluidics to characterize electrical communication between neuronal populations, and the effect of neuronal activity in axonal transport dynamics.

Through strong connections to the clinic, we also work with electrophysiology recordings from human patients implanted with microelectrode arrays. Research is carried out in the context of epilepsy (e.g. detection of epileptogenic regions), as well as with deep brain stimulation in patients with Parkinson’s disease (e.g. developing methods towards adaptive neuromodulation).

A long-term goal of the NCN group is the development of microelectrodes systems and other neurotechnologies for therapeutic strategies based on the control and modulation of neural electrophysiology (closed-loop neuromodulation).