This project contains four fields of study. Please see the details described below.
《Field 1》 Leader : Kazuyuki Murase
The aim of this team is two holds; development of a new type of laser microscope and analysis of neuronal plasticity that underlies development of the central nervous system.
More specifically, we first develop a multi-photon nonlinear microscope with a new ultra-short-pulse ytterbium laser. With this microscope, we investigate the growth and the development of the cortex in vivo and intro.
Secondly, we visualize neuronal excitation and calcium dynamics with con-focal laser microscope in real-time, and investigate the neuronal plasticity that is the functional mechanism of learning and memory. Especially, the role of glial cells on the initiation and maintenance of neuronal plasticity.
The results of this research will give new insights on the development of neuronal system.
《Field 2》 Leader : Makoto Sato
The purpose of our team is to study the developmental principles of the brain and reveal their underlying mechanisms at molecular and cellular levels. We, then, will extend our observations for elucidating the etiology of their malfunctions / diseases and developing new therapies.
We will study on 1) molecular and cellular aspects of the neocortical development: how neurons and glias are born, migrate then function as the neocortex, how the myelination takes place, and how the malformation of the neocortex results in its malfunctions / diseases. 2) How the circadian rhythm is matured during the development and influences on the brain development. 3) How the medication influences on the brain development from the psychiatric point of view.
The results of our team, especially those from the developmental points of view, will provide the entirely new insights into the brain development and its diseases, and the innovated approaches for developing therapies.
《Field 3》 Leader : Hidehiko Okazawa
The purpose of our research team is to investigate development of cognitive function in children from aspects of neuronal activity and brain anatomy.
In our study, we will use MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and focus on 1) development of brain neural network, 2) development of brain morphology, 3) development of cognitive function in children, adolescents, as well as adults. At the same time, we will examine which types of lifestyle and living environment will affect children's brain development by conducting neurocognitive function tests and questionnaire surveys.
The result of this research project may provide development of new effective training methods for children to facilitate their growth of sound mind and motivation for learning linked up with field 4.
《Field 4》 Leader : Yoshinori Mitsuhashi
The purpose of our research team is to investigate the cognitive and neurological characteristics of children with developmental disorders and other psychological problems. And we will apply these research results to school education and child-rearing.
To give an actual example; 1) We will use NIRS (Near-Infrared Spectroscopy), EEG (electroencephalogram) and other behavioral indices such as eye-gaze detection and motion picture. 2) We will examine the cognitive development and learning process from the baby to the adult; e.g. ; attention, memory, understanding others and ability to think and apply at the base of academic performance. 3) We will examine the method of diagnosis and assessment of developmental disorders by executing a fact-finding inquiry in the school and the kindergarten. 4) We will develop an education program and a new support-system to children with special needs through the interdisciplinary approach.