Temporal and spatial contrast phenomena in pain networks (A06)

• Subject Area: Human Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience
• Term: from 2011 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 178316478

We will build upon novel functional MRI (fMRI) pulse sequences to study the network properties underlying spatial and temporal contrast phenomena in pain. We will further improve cortico-spinal fMRI and perform fMRI network studies and behavioral investigations to test for a spinal contribution to temporal (offset analgesia) and spatial contrast (thermal grill illusion; TGI) phenomena. In addition, we will use fMRI to further investigate the observation that the PAG codes a pain derivative signal and how this signal is integrated into the network of other nociceptive areas such as the secondary somatosensory cortex and the anterior insula.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 936: Multi-Site Communication in the Brain
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Christian Büchel