Dr. Santiago Canals
European neuroscience institute
Network of European Neuroscience Institutes (ENI-NET)
Spain
Biography
Dr. Santiago Canals Laboratory Plasticity of Brain Networks,Cellular and Systems Neurobiology – The Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante
Research Interest
Experience-dependent modulations of synaptic strength shape the functional structure of the brain, recruiting relevant networks in a particular context and supporting behavioural adaptation. Little is known, however, about how synapse dynamics are transformed into network dynamics. Recently we have demonstrated that brain circuits involved in learning and memory are functionally reorganized after local potentiation of synaptic transmission in the hippocampus. In our current research we aim at investigating the mechanisms underlying this network reorganization, focusing on short- and long-term synaptic plasticity and neuromodulation. To this end we combine functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with electrophysiological techniques and deep brain microstimulation, in murine models of learning and memory.
