Computational Neuroscience and the Dynamics of Disease States

Description and aim

Many brain disorders are dynamic diseases, where synchronization and desynchronization of multicellular domains operates abnormally. Epilepsy, for example, is characterized by the occurrence of synchronized activity within a large area of the cortex. Abnormal rhythms in the basal ganglia are associated with Parkinson's disease and migraine is a disorder characterized by severe headaches and nausea, probably caused by malfunctioning of the serotonergic control system. The dynamics of both physiological and pathological neuronal interactions are partially reflected in the brain rhythms that can be recorded with intra-cerebral electrodes or EEG/MEG. The challenge is to combine concepts of neurophysiology of neuronal networks with the knowledge of complex dynamical systems to develop new hypotheses regarding neural function that may be tested experimentally and ultimately translated into the clinic. Real progress in understanding and treatment of neuronal disorders can only be made via truly cross-disciplinary interactions. This workshop will bring together experimentalists and theorists to discuss the dynamics of brain disease states. Moreover, it will show-case existing successful multidisciplinary approaches in a set of combined theoretical-experimental talks to promote similar new collaborations.