University of Oregon

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University of Oregon

• AEED
• Neuroscience

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University of Oregon Strengths in Neuroscience
Cognitive/Affective and Systems
Neuroscience Genetics of Central Nervous Systems
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Systems Currently Studied
Cognitive/Affective and Systems Neuroscience
auditory perception visual perception
visual-motor integration mechanisms of
attention learning
working memory long-term memory
executive control language
social/emotional skills functional brain
plasticity
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Recording the Brains Electrical Activity
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MRI Images
Structure
Function
Connectivity
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Functional Brain Plasticity/Modifiability (enhance
ment and vulnerability)
Two types of plasticity profiles sensitive
periods multiple lifelong plasticity
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Vertebrate Genetics Zebrafish, Mouse, Human
Bridging Mind and Molecules
Genetics/ genomics/ proteomics identify the
molecules that are affected. Animal MRI tells
us where in the brain the effects occur (smart
contrast agents). Animal electrophysiology and
behavior further specify effects at the
cellular level. MRI and behavior in humans
indicate how genetic effects and environmental
inputs influence the functions of particular
brain systems and behavior.
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Epigenetics
Serotonin
high low
present
absent
Nurturing adult
From Suomi et al. 2003
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Attention
behavioral, MRI electrophysiology in
humans behavioral, MRI, pharmocology and
neurophysiology in single neurons in
mice drd4 knockout mice and zebrafish high
field (9-11T) MRI in mice and zebrafish to
characterize consequences of attention-related
gene expression in neuronal networks assess
gene/environment interactions Also deafness,
vision, learning, language, memory, emotions and
neuroplasticity
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University of Oregon

• Brain, Biology and Machine Initiative
• Multidisciplinary Research Consortium

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AEED Recommendations

• ? Support basic research on the epigenetics of
  sensory, cognitive and social/emotional
  development and plasticity
• ? Establish an interface between science,
  policymaking and practice so that the results of
  neuroscience research can guide the design of
  educational curricula, and programs for
  prevention, intervention and rehabilitation
• ? Optimize human development capitalize on
  large investments taxpayers have made in the
  science of development and neuroplasticity
• ? What would it take to have the first
  evidence-based educational and human services
  systems in the world? How would this benefit our
  state?
• educational reform
• welfare reform
• economic development
• violence prevention and crime control
• ? Short-term costs are high long-term
  benefits are much higher