Speaker: Robert Froemke, Ph.D., Skirball Foundation Professor of Genetics, Departments of Otolaryngology, Neuroscience & Physiology, New York University School of Medicine

Time: 13:00-14:00 p.m., Jun 24, 2024, GMT+8

Venue: Youcai Deng Lecture Hall, School of Life Sciences, PKU 

Abstract: 

Neuroplasticity is important for learning the meaning of different sounds. Here I will discuss neuroplasticity and behavioral adaptations in rodents, first in new mother mice learning to care for pups, and then in deafened rats learning to use cochlear implants to hear again. I will discuss our previous work and newer results on maternal responses to infant distress calls, and how oxytocin enables rapid neurobehavioral changes for parents to recognize the meaning of these calls. We have built a new system combining 24/7 continuous video monitoring with neural recordings from the auditory cortex and oxytocin neurons of the hypothalamus in vivo. With this documentary approach, we have identified behaviors of experienced and naive adults learning to co-parent together which also activate oxytocin neurons. Our new data show how co-parenting helps with the challenges of mouse maternity to ensure infant survival. Finally, I will discuss our on-going work on studying the neural basis of cochlear implant use, and the mechanisms of neuromodulation and plasticity required for deaf rats to behaviorally respond to implant stimulation.

Source: School of Life Sciences, PKU