QBI Neuroscience Seminar: Deep-time epigenesis of neocortical circuits (or how to make a mammalian brain)

Event Details

Date:

Wednesday, 14 October 2015 - Wednesday, 14 October 2015

Time:

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Room:

QBI Level 7 Auditorium

UQ Location:

Queensland Brain Institute (St Lucia)

URL:

http://www.qbi.uq.edu.au/neuroscience-seminars

Event category(s):

Full Description:: Dr Rodrigo Suárez
Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland.
Title: Deep-time epigenesis of neocortical circuits (or how to make a mammalian brain)
Abstract:
More than 200 million years ago, an embryo hatched to feed for the first time from its mother's milky secretions. Today, we trace the evolutionary history of our furry ancestors to elucidate the origins of the cerebral cortex, the main innovation of the mammalian brain. What developmental events led to the evolution of the neocortex and its huge expansion of inter-hemispheric connections? How can fundamental questions of evolutionary neuroscience help reduce the burden of developmental brain disorders in humans? To investigate these issues, we employ state-of-the-art techniques in a novel marsupial model of ex-utero cortical development that allows unprecedented experimental access for mechanistic questions.