[BIC-announce] Seminar in Biomedical Engineering - Wednesday February 29th at 13h

[Christophe Grova]

Dear all,

Our next Biomedical Engineering Dpt seminar is today

Wednesday - February 29th,  at 13h

Location: Room  333 Lyman Duff Building (Biomedical Engineering Dpt, 3775 University Street).

Speaker: Dr. M.  Avoli, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University , Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Title: Synchronization of neuronal networks via GABA type A receptor signaling


Abstract:
GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the adult forebrain, where it activates ionotropic type A and metabotropic type B receptors. Early studies have shown that GABAA receptor-mediated inhibition controls neuronal excitability and thus the occurrence of seizures. However, more complex, and at times unexpected, mechanisms of GABAergic signaling have been identified during epileptiform discharges over the last few years. Here, I will present experimental data that point at the paradoxical role played by GABA type A receptor-mediated mechanisms in synchronizing neuronal networks, and in particular those of limbic structures such as the hippocampus, the entorhinal and perirhinal cortices, or the amygdala. After having summarized the fundamental characteristics of GABA type A receptor-mediated mechanisms, I will analyze their role in the generation of epileptiform discharges. Whether and how GABAA receptors influence the interaction between limbic networks leading to ictogenesis will be also reviewed. Finally, we will consider the role of altered inhibition in the human epileptic brain along with the ability of GABAA receptor-mediated conductances to generate synchronous depolarizing events that may lead to ictogenesis in human epileptic disorders as well.

A list of upcoming seminars can be found at : http://www.mcgill.ca/bme/news/seminars

See you there

Christophe Grova

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Christophe Grova, PhD
Assistant Professor
Biomedical Engineering Dpt
Neurology and Neurosurgery Dpt
Montreal Neurological Institute
Centre de Recherches en Mathématiques
Biomedical Engineering Department - Room 304
McGill University
3775 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3A 2B4
email : christophe.grova at mcgill.ca<mailto:christophe.grova at mcgill.ca>
tel : (514) 398 2516
fax : (514) 398 7461

web:
http://www.mni.mcgill.ca/research/gotman/members/christophe.html
http://www.bmed.mcgill.ca/
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