11.2022 - 02.2026

Modeling brain oscillations, connectivity, and network alterations

a) Development of neurocomputational models of the hippocampus in episodic memory, based on theta-gamma coupling and cholinergic modulation, simulating memorization/recovery of episode sequences and alterations during sleep.

b) Development of a neurocomputational model of the alpha rhythm in attention, including a mechanism for distractor suppression based on alpha oscillations and the alpha-gamma coupling.

c) Development of a neurocomputational model of the Basal ganglia, based on dopamine dynamics, and of their alterations in pathological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s disease).

d) Analysis of brain connectivity using Granger causality, in several conditions (autism, schizophrenia, fear acquisition, epilepsy, working memory, attention, motor control); analysis of the virtues and limitations of the Granger estimation. 

e) Development of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) techniques for decoding and interpreting brain signals in different conditions (limb movements, spatial attention, minimally conscious state). 

Improvement of our basic knowledge about the fundamental neural mechanisms involved in memory, attention, motor control, and on the role of brain oscillations in related neurocognitive and neuromotor problems. Improvement of basic knowledge about brain alterations and the underlying mechanisms involved in neurological diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, memory or attention disorders, autism, schizophrenia, disorders of consciousness. Suggestions for innovative procedures in the diagnosis and treatment of the pathological states mentioned above. Contribution to brain-computer interface (BCI) systems through interpretable decoding of brain signals. Suggestions about brain-inspired algorithms and architectures for Artificial Intelligence. 

Settori Scientifico Disciplinari

ING-IND/34  INDUSTRIAL BIOENGINEERING

Spoke 4 : Perception and Brain-Body Interaction