Axel Sandvig: Recapitulation of complex neural network dynamics underlying physiological behaviours and pathological alterations
To gain better insights into how neural networks reconfigure their structure-function relationships as a result of an insult, such as the onset of neurodegenerative pathology, we need preclinical models that enable the study of microscale modifications of neurons and synapses at the cellular and subcellular levels, as well as mesoscale alterations in long-range and local connections among distinct neuronal types. Such models should also recapitulate the human pathology as closely as possible and allow for selective study and manipulation of neurons and networks of interest, to initiate or reverse the pathological cascade. Advanced in vitro models, have the potential to help us address the above requirements and combined with computational modelling, can facilitate investigations that are not feasible in vivo. In this talk, I will provide examples of how we can recapitulate and study complex neural network dynamics in healthy and perturbed conditions in vitro, as a complementary approach to in vivo modelling.