Memory Matters, 2009
Talks at the 2009 presentation of Memory Matters:
Daniel Johnston, Ph.D |
Introduction
Introduction into the field of Neuroscience and how researcher approach some of the fundemental apsects of Learning and Memory. This will be an overview of the ongoing research within the Center and an introduction to the faculty heading up this research. |
Kristen Harris, Ph.D. |
How learning changes connections in your brain
Synapses are the physical sites, or connections, where communication occurs between neurons in the brain. They are extremely small, sub-micron structures, that require electron microscopy to visualize. The structure of synapses can change, resulting in altered neuronal communication and brain function. Dr. Harris studies how changes in synaptic structure affects brain function by utilizing three-dimensional reconstruction of synapses from electron microscopy images. She will discuss how synapse structure changes in the brain during normal development, learning, and in diseases such as epilepsy. |
Rick Aldrich, Ph.D |
The molecular building blocks for electrical signals in the brain
The brain and nervous system are electrical and chemical information processing organs that determine how we act and who we are. The molecular units that underlie the generation, modification, and transmission of electrical activity are called ion channels. These are a large family of proteins that regulate the movement of ions like sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride across cell membranes to generate electric current and voltage signals. Drugs that are used to treat many types of diseases work by binding to ion channels and altering their properties. Dr. Richard Aldrich will describe and illustrate the molecular and functional properties of ion channels that are necessary for proper brain function and how they can be modified by experience, disease, drugs, learning and memory. |
Memory Matters, 2009 was sponsored in part by
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