Our research

We investigate how different parts of the central nervous system interact to generate purposeful behaviors. In particular, we study how the cerebral cortex and the basal ganglia interact to control motor actions, both under normal conditions and in individuals afflicted by Parkinson’s disease. In our previous work, we have studied motor control functions, ranging from relatively simple circuits in the spinal cord, to elaborate networks like the cortico-basal ganglia-thalamic loop. To this end, we have developed unique technologies that allow us to analyze neuronal activity from up to 20 brain structures in parallel in freely behaving animals.

Aims

• To understand the information processing of neurons affecting the selection of voluntary movements.
• To unravel the pathophysiological processes in cortico-basal ganglia circuits that cause motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease.
• To elucidate the pathophysiological processes in cortico-basal ganglia circuits that cause levodopa-induced dyskinesia.

Impact

Our research aims to give deeper insights into fundamental brain functions with implications for several fields of research, such as Parkinson’s disease. Increased knowledge in this area will accelerate the development of new therapies for brain disease

Research Team & Publications

Read about publications and research team members of the Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology research group in the LU Research Portal.