Neurons in the somatosensory cortex encode multiple features of vibrotactile signals using firing frequency
To assess how pyramidal neurons encode features of vibrotactile sensations delivered by primary afferents, UTCSP member Dr. Steven Prescott and colleagues created computational simulations and performed electrophysiological recordings on slices of these neurons in S1 to explore individual and population-level coding.
In vivo construction of the central amygdala and trigeminal motor nucleus white matter pathway in humans using 7T and 3T Diffusion Weighted Imaging
The mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve controls muscles of mastication through an area of the pontine brainstem called the trigeminal motor nucleus (5M). In rodents, 5M motor neurons have been shown to be involved in various circuits that contribute to jaw functions. Mapping these circuits in humans has been challenging because of the complex structure of the brainstem, the prevalence of crossing fibers, and the need for high-resolution technology to unravel these circuits.
Impairments in the temporal organization of neural activity in patients with neuropathic pain
Treating neuropathic pain, often characterized by intense shooting, stabbing, or burning pain, is a major healthcare challenge. It is thought that the dynamic organization of neural networks is affected in patients with chronic pain.
UTCSP members showcase their pain research at Neuroscience 2019
October 19 to 23 2019, the Society for Neuroscience hosted their 49th Annual Meeting in Chicago, IL. It was a lively event with 27,832 attendees from 75 countries, 13,677 abstract presentations, and 833 sessions.