Goal
- The Neural Computation Unit aims to understand the biological basis of the human mind by integrating top-down theoretical models with bottom-up biological experiments.
Abstract
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This research aims to understand the biological basis of the human mind through the fusion of top-down theoretical models and bottom-up biological experiments. Recent advancements in molecular biology have revealed molecules and genes associated with various mental disorders such as Schizophrenia and Depression. However, many of these disorders are believed to result from complex interactions between multiple molecules, genes, and environmental factors.
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Understanding such interactions requires the development of new mathematical methods for modeling complex networks of cells, molecules, and genes, as well as investigating the functions and dynamics of neurotransmitter systems like dopamine and serotonin through neurophysiological experiments.
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The research focuses on three main challenges:
- Development of new mathematical methods to model complex networks of cells, molecules, and genes.
- Investigation of the functions and dynamics of neurotransmitter systems like dopamine and serotonin through neurophysiological experiments.
- Exploration of adaptive mechanisms necessary for self-preservation and self-replication in dynamic environments, including the possibility of malfunctions, through robot experiments.
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By combining theoretical, biological, and engineering approaches, this research aims to develop new software for dynamic system models, robots with advanced adaptive functions similar to human emotions, and new approaches for treating and preventing mental disorders.
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Sounds interesting! (blu3mo)(blu3mo)(blu3mo)
Research Themes
- https://groups.oist.jp/en/ncu/research
- These are the “three main challenges” mentioned earlier.
- Clicking on the links provides detailed explanations for each.
- Dynamic Systems Group
- Focuses on developing new mathematical methods to model complex networks of cells, molecules, and genes, using Bayesian estimation for unknown variables and parameters based on experimental data and existing knowledge.
- Systems Biology Group
- Investigates the theoretical models of mechanisms through which neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin control learning and decision-making, using neurophysiological experiments with rats.
- Adaptive Systems Group
- Utilizes artificial rodent robots (cyber rodents) that search for batteries as food and reproduce through infrared communication ports to explore adaptive mechanisms necessary for self-preservation and self-replication.
- Sounds interesting! (blu3mo)(blu3mo)
- Has a resemblance to Artificial Life.