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SUMMARY:How molecules constrain networks - Dr Aldo Faisal\, Department of 
 Engineering\, University of Cambridge
DTSTART:20081023T113000Z
DTEND:20081023T115500Z
UID:TALK14094@talks.cam.ac.uk
CONTACT:Hannah Critchlow
DESCRIPTION:Variability is a prominent feature of any biological system. R
 andom variability poses a fundamental problem for information processing a
 nd therefore affects all aspects of nervous system function. We know much 
 about the molecular mechanisms which govern neuronal function. Yet\, the i
 mpact of the inherent molecular variability ("noise") on neural function h
 as only recently been addressed in a quantitative manner by the use of sto
 chastic models and simulations.\n\nWe will focus here on the action potent
 ials\, the fundamental signal used by neurons to transmit information alon
 g the connections of our brain's networks. We will show how thermodynamic 
 fluctuations in signaling proteins (voltage-gated ion channels) that media
 te the action potential set hard limits and constraints on the way the bra
 in can be wired. We place this finding into the context of other physical 
 constraints on the brain's networks. This approach will enable us to make 
 predictions about basic properties of neural network connectivity from fir
 st biophysical principles.\n\n
LOCATION:Kaetsu Centre\, New Hall
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