Prof. Ole Paulsen

The primary interest of our group is the relationship between network oscillations and synaptic plasticity. Network oscillations naturally organise spike timing conducive to spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), a strong candidate for a mechanism involved in neural development as well as learning and memory processes. We aim to gain insight into how information can be stored and retrieved as changes of synaptic weights in neural networks displaying oscillatory activity. To this end, we use a combination of techniques, including whole-cell patch-clamp and planar multi-electrode recording, calcium imaging and light-activated channels (channelrhodopsins). We are also interested in understanding synaptic plasticity in disease processes during development (neurodevelopmental disorders) as well as during aging (neurodegenerative disorders). For this, we use both mouse models and human cerebral organoids.