Effects of Drugs on Cognition-Related Brain Wave Signals in the Rat

Project Details

It is increasingly recognised that the rhythmic signals recorded with the electroencephalogram (EEG), or “brain waves” are not just the “noise” of neural activity, but are probably frequency specific channels through which cognition related signalling occurs, including memory encoding.  High frequency (“gamma”) brain wave activity has been associated with higher cognitive activity in humans and animals, and is disrupted in psychosis and schizophrenia.

A largely neglected area of study in this area is the role of voltage-gated ion channels that have a significant role in the generation of neuronal and network rhythmicity.  In this project, signals related to cognitive processing, including gamma frequency oscillations and place cells will be recorded with microelectrode arrays. The effects of antipsychotic drugs and some related compounds, including potassium and sodium channel modulators, will be examined

This project has considerable potential to reveal how psychoactive drugs work at the whole brain level, and provide clues for better therapies.

Researchers

Collaborators

  • Dr Idrish Ali

Research Opportunities

This research project is available to Honours students to join as part of their thesis.
Please contact the Research Group Leader to discuss your options.

Research Group

Neural Dynamics Laboratory



Faculty Research Themes

Neuroscience

School Research Themes

Neuroscience & Psychiatry



Key Contact

For further information about this research, please contact the research group leader.

Department / Centre

Medicine

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