Synapses, Neurons and Brains

Embark on a captivating journey through the complexities of brain research with the Synapses, Neurons and Brains course. This comprehensive exploration delves into the operational principles of neuronal “life-ware” including synapses, neurons, and the networks they form. Delve into the computational microchips of neurons, their plasticity, and the underlying processes of learning and memory. Uncover the heroic attempts to simulate large cortical networks like the groundbreaking "Blue Brain Project". Explore the profound connections between perception, cognition, emotions, and the brain, and contemplate the future of brain research with intriguing discussions on "brain and art," consciousness, and free will.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of brain excitements in the 21st century, from the blossoming of the brain worldwide to the innovative Brainbow technology and the simulation of the brain through the Blue Brain Project. Explore the connectomics and the brain-machine interface, and uncover the potential of optogenetics in brain research.

Delve into the materialistic mind and understand the fundamental ingredients of your brain. Explore the intricacies of the neuron, the neuron doctrine, and the synaptic connections within the brain. Uncover the roles of the axon and dendrite, and gain insights into the different types of neurons and their functionalities.

Explore the passive electrical signals within the brain, understanding the cell as an RC circuit and delving into the concepts of resting potential, synaptic potentials, and temporal summation. Gain insights into the synaptic conductance and the underlying electrical dynamics of the brain.

Dive into the realm of active electrical spikes within the brain, exploring the Hodgkin Huxley experiments, the all-or-none spike, and the membrane currents underlying these spikes. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the modeling of membrane currents and the Hodgkin-Huxley spike model.

Uncover the plastic and dynamic nature of neurons, exploring the mechanisms underlying learning and memory. Gain insights into the functional and structural plasticity of neurons, and understand the role of neurogenesis in the process of learning and memory within the brain.

Delve into the intricacies of cable theory and dendritic computations within the brain, understanding the computational processes at the level of single neurons and the fundamentals of dendritic cable theory. Explore recent breakthroughs in the field of dendritic computation and gain insights into its potential applications.

Explore the ambitious cortical network projects, delving into the Blue Brain Project and its simulation of cortical column networks. Gain insights into the journey from mouse to human brain simulations and explore the broader implications of the Human Brain Project.

Uncover the processes of sensory transduction and the early processing of sensory information within the brain. Explore how sensory information guides motion and gain insights into the higher order processes of sensory information, as well as the intricate realm of emotions within the brain.

Reflect on the extensive knowledge gained throughout the course, delving into the reading of thoughts and the intriguing exploration of free will within the context of brain research. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the course's content and its implications for broader philosophical and scientific questions.