Using machine learning to investigate the role of cell assemblies in processing traumatic experiences and the development of post-traumatic stress disorder

Project Code

MRCNMH25Br Purple

Research Theme

Neuroscience & Mental Health

Project Summary Download

Summary

Groups of neurons known as cell assemblies become active during our daily experiences and reactivate over time, including during sleep. Whilst this reactivation is known to be important for the processing and consolidation of memory, little is known of how this occurs in the context of a traumatic experience. This project aims to develop machine learning algorithms to identify cell assemblies and track their reactivation during wake and sleep after a trauma-like experience in rats. This will provide essential insights into how traumatic experiences are processed within the brain and how this contributes to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Lead Supervisor

Dr Ross Purple

Lead Supervisor Email

ross.purple@bristol.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Bristol