Biophysics of Neuronal
signalling
PIs: Mikko Vähäsöyrinki, PhD, Academy Research Fellow
Matti Weckstrom MD PhD Professor of Biophysics
Research groups, including graduate
students
Current research
within Biocenter Oulu
NEW! Post-doctoral positions
2009-2011
Summary of
Research 
- A multidisciplinary effort, combining
approaches like electrophysiology, genetics, biophysical modelling,
evolutionary biology and linear/non-linear system analysis to solve
specific questions concerning neuronal signalling.
- Aims: to provide detailed description of
neuronal mechanisms involved in visual processing, including learning and
memory.
- Animal models: Insects of different
species, and their neurons and neuronal assemblies are used as research
models enabling us to assess research questions in well defined systems
- Validity: The basic mechanisms uncovered
are likely to be general and valid across species, including vertebrates.
- Main topics: 1. Specific molecular
mechanisms, mainly the ion channels, responsible for optimization of
visual signal processing in the periphery, and 2. Neuronal mechanisms of
the visual processing in higher brain centres. More specifically:
1) K+ channels and efficient neural coding
2) Molecular mechanisms in adapting to dim environment
3) Mechanisms for lateral inhibition: the field potential
4) Neuronal basis for movement detection
5) Neuronal mechanisms of learning and memory
- The
research project also forms a PhD- and post-doctoral training program.
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