Research

Principles of neural connectivity underlying normal and pathological brain processing

This research group compares the architecture of structural and functional connectivity networks and model their interrelationships. It will also investigate changes in neural connectivity in terms of developmental, physiological and pathological neuroplasticity. The findings of these studies will contribute significantly to our knowledge of neural "wiring" in the healthy and diseased brain. Furthermore, by characterising the nature of network reorganisation in neuropsychiatric conditions, these studies can identify useful early biological disease markers.

Cortical excitability – from molecular to behavioural levels

This group explores the manifold factors that modify cortical excitability by performing multimodal and multilevel investigations. In doing so, we can uncover the basic neural mechanisms underlying several psychophysiological phenomena (e.g., déjà vu) and advance our understanding of pathological mechanisms behind the development of various neuropsychiatric diseases (e.g., epilepsy).

The neural underpinning of social cognition in healthy individuals and pathological conditions

As social cognitive neuroscientists, this group are interested in the brain mechanisms and networks underlying social cognition – that is, the cognitive mechanisms that allow us to interact with others and conduct ourselves appropriately in social contexts. We investigate this by measuring social behaviours (e.g., empathic expression, imitative tendencies) via self-report and task performance and the neural dynamics behind them. To elucidate the underlying brain processes as they unfold during natural social interaction, we are developing experimental paradigms for two-person brain imaging ("hyperscanning") in both the healthy population and clinical disorders characterised by altered social behaviour.

miRNA-lab

In our laboratory, we are using molecular biology methods to elucidate the role of miRNAs in epileptogenesis and their possible therapeutic potential for treating epilepsy or preventing the development of epilepsy itself.

Within the miRNA-lab, we also closely collaborate with other research institutions such as the Central Genomics Laboratory of CEITEC MU, the Institute of Physiology of the Faculty of Medicine of MU and the Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences. Thanks to this, we can cover a wide range of research issues from miRNA sequencing to the use of in vitro microelectrode studies of tissue sections and cell cultures and in vivo studies of animal models.