Neuronal circuit dynamics of motor systems – how are existing circuits adapted to generate novel behaviors (B17)

• Subject Area: Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Term: from 2014 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 118803580

Adaptive tuning enables similar neuronal circuits to generate different behaviors. Taking advantage of the presence of a slow (<15 Hz; locomotion) and a fast (>100 Hz; sonic system) spinal motor system in the piranha, the goal of the proposed study is to investigate the different adaptations that lead to widely differing frequency regimes in neuronal circuits that share a common evolutionary origin. Since motoneurons are a crucial component of any central pattern generator, their intrinsic properties are a prime candidate to investigate the adaptations underlying different frequency regimes and different behaviors.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 870: Assembly and Function of Neuronal Circuits in Sensory Processing
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Boris Chagnaud