RESEARCH

Main research directions and contents

1.Analysis and mapping of nervous system at multi-scales

The complex neural circuits formed by the synaptic connections between neurons in the brain are the basis for all cognitive functions. Using various biophysical techniques, particularly advanced imaging technologies, we analyze the multi-scale structures, functions and connectivity maps of neural circuits. Our long-term goal is to establish a big data platform for the organization of the neural system, providing a foundation for brain simulations and neuromorphic intelligent technology.

 


2.Neuronal synaptic plasticity and network dynamics, and their participation in learning, memory and related disorders

Plasticity is a fundamental property of neural synapses. Changes in synaptic plasticity interact with the electrical activity of neuronal network, forming complex yet ordered dynamic systems. We use electrophysiology, optical detection and manipulation, as well as computational simulation to study the computational rules and biophysical mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and neural network dynamics both in vitro and in vivo, hoping to gain insights into the working principles of learning, memory, intelligence and the neural basis of related disorders.  

 


3.Advanced optics, electron microscopy and big data analysis technologies, and their applications in biomedicine

Through interdisciplinary collaborations, we focus particularly on effective technologies and methods for analyzing the structures and functions of synapses and neural circuits. We develop a variety of cutting-edge photonics and microscopy technologies at multiple scales, including cryo-electron tomography, correlative microscopy, super-resolution microscopy, high-speed 3D fluorescence microscopy, and ultra-miniature in vivo microscopy, as well as corresponding big data analysis processing methods, and then extend their applications in the field of biomedicine.