Title: Fronto-hippocampal-striatal network functions: from development across the lifespan to modulation and plasticity in old age
Speaker: Dr. Franka Thurm
Time: 2016/03/22 (Tuesday) 14:00-16:00
Venue: NCU S4 209 Lecture Hall （中央大學 科學四館 209室）
Abstract: Cognitive functions such as performance monitoring and spatial memory are subserved by fronto-striatal and hippocampal-striatal circuitries, respectively, which are affected by known structural and neuromodulatory brain changes during development and aging. From a lifespan developmental neuroscience perspective I will present data indicating differential development and decline of related cognitive functions from childhood to old age. Specifically focusing on spatial learning and memory and using Parkinson’s disease as a model disorder for dopamine dysregulation, I will further provide evidence on the role of dopamine modulation in virtual reality-based hippocampus- and striatum-dependent spatial navigation. Finally, I will discuss potential benefits of cognitive and physical training and brain stimulation (non-invasive and deep brain stimulation methods) to promote cognitive plasticity within the fronto-hippocampal-striatal network.