How neurons make maps of space
A wide range of environmental stimuli and brain rhythms, generate precise mental maps of space. The mechanism by which this happens remain to be understood. A noninvasive virtual reality system reveals that there are multiple neural maps of space that compete with each other.
Memory and the brain
Our research has focused on computational and experimental investigations of learning and memory, seeking to understand how the brain learns and remembers how to navigate unfamiliar environments, research aimed at paving the way to better understanding mechanisms of learning and memory in neural networks.
Memory related brain activity during sleep
UCLA researchers have for the first time measured the activity of a brain region known to be involved in learning, memory and Alzheimer's disease during sleep. They discovered that this region, called the entorhinal cortex, behaves as if it is remembering something, even during anesthesia-induced sleep.
How the brain makes memories
In a discovery that challenges conventional wisdom on the brain mechanisms of learning, UCLA neuro-physicists have found there is an optimal brain "rhythm," or frequency, for changing synaptic strength. And further, like stations on a radio dial, each synapse is tuned to a different optimal frequency for learning.
How running improves brain rhythms
Rhythms in the brain that are associated with learning become stronger as the body moves faster. Our research team found that the strength of the gamma rhythm grew substantially as running speed increased, bringing scientists a step closer to understanding the brain functions essential for learning and navigation.
Memory reorganization during sleep
Memories are stored in both the neocortex and the hippocampus. Then, during sleep, the hippocampus, acting as a temporary storage system, is cleared for another day of learning, while the memories are retained in the neocortex, which provides permanent storage much like a computer hard disk.
How neuronal dendrites influence learning
Neurons are tree-like cells with connections between neurons made on branch-like processes called dendrites. A novel, biophysical 'Hebbian' learning rule is proposed that explains the dendritic contribution to learning.
How neural rhythms facilitate learning
Neuronal communication is crucial for learning and this requires high temporal precision. A mechanism is proposed where brain rhythms make neuronal communication more precise and facilitate learning.
How experience changes the brain
It is thought that learning from experience occurs via changes in connections between neurons. Here we demonstrate how neural circuits change as a result of just a short walk in a maze.
Structure of space-time in quantum field theory
This mathematical theory shows that there must be at least two extra space-time dimensions attached to our 'normal' space-time for quantum field theories to be mathematically well-defined.
