Neural network analysis using a novel multichannel "SMART" neuroprobe. (360G-Wellcome-100154_B_12_Z)

Neuroscience is entering an exciting period when it will be possible to decipher the neural codes underlying perception and cognition. Novel genetic, molecular, physiological, optical and behavioural approaches will allow the monitoring of activity across ensembles of neurons in behaving rodents, and the manipulation of this activity in a temporally and spatially precise manner. For the first time we will establish causal links between patterns of neural activity and behaviour, and carry out decisive tests of both new and long-standing hypotheses about the computational properties of neural circuits. Members of the consortia seek to understand thepatterns of neural activity underlying sensory, motor and cognitive representations, and the rules by which they are assembled. The core of the present proposal is the development and testing of a major stepchange in silicon-based electrode technology to rapidly accelerate the pace of this work by greatly increasing the simultaneous sampling of extracellular electrical signals within and across multiple brain regions.