Course Description

This advanced level course offers an integrated understanding of the various scales of organization in the brain, exploring the interplay between genes, channels, cells, microcircuits, and brain regions in shaping behavior. It incorporates the latest data and methodologies in neuroinformatics, encompassing data analysis, modeling, and simulation. Contributions are made by over 10 international neuroscientists, providing a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge tools and techniques.

• Techniques for the visualization, mapping, and modeling of neural components ranging from single cells to long-range cortical interactions.
• Methods to classify neurons and analyze the relationship between cell morphology and function.
• Effective use of brain atlases and modern modeling tools for neuroscience research.

• Understanding of ordinary differential equations and their numerical solutions.
• Programming experience in Python (preferred), Java, C/C++, MATLAB, or R.

• Latest techniques in neuroinformatics for data analysis, modeling, and simulation.
• Detailed tutorials on brain atlases and gene expression data from top institutions like the Allen Institute for Brain Science.
• Hands-on exercises designed to skill the learners in using sophisticated tools and data for conducting their own research.
• In-depth case studies and contributions from leading experts in neurobiology.

This course is ideally suited for advanced students, researchers, and professionals in the fields of neuroscience, biology, and computational sciences who are interested in enhancing their understanding and practical skills in neuroinformatics and brain function analysis.

Skills acquired through this course can be applied in academic research, clinical studies, and the development of new computational models and tools that aid in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. Furthermore, proficiency in these areas supports advancements in AI and machine learning related to pattern recognition and data analysis in complex systems.

1. Introduction: Course orientation, overview of tools from the Allen Institute.
2. Genetic Mapping of the mouse brain: Characterizing cell types, neural circuit dissection.
3. Navigating gene expression data: Access and utilization of mouse and human gene expression datasets.
4. Multi-scale connectivity: Synaptic, mesoscale, and connectivity atlas mapping.
5. Multi-scale modeling: Techniques from Blue Brain, cell typing and large-scale brain phenomena modeling.
6. Reconstructing micro-circuitry: Analysis of cortical microcircuits, modeling techniques.
7. Structure and function of the whole brain: Integration of neuron to whole brain imaging and functionality.
8. Final Exam