Keio University Human Biology-Microbiome-Quantum Research Center (WPI-Bio2Q) will hold a seminar as follows.
This is an event for faculty, students, and staff of Keio University. We sincerely look forward to your participation.

The 175th Brain Club Seminar (WPI-Bio2Q Open Seminar)
Host : Yuzaki Lab
Co-host : Bio2Q

Abstract:

How does the brain prepare for vision before the eyes even open?

During early development, neurons generate spontaneous patterns of activity long before sensory experience begins. Using long-term two-photon imaging in the developing mouse visual cortex, the Scheiffele laboratory found that these early activity patterns already contain features of the functional networks that later process visual information.

Their studies further reveal that neurons differ in how strongly they participate in early spontaneous activity—and that this early history is linked to how selectively they later respond to visual stimuli.

By combining functional imaging with advanced transcriptomic approaches, the team also uncovered developmental changes in gene regulation that allow spontaneous and sensory-driven activity to engage distinct molecular programs.

Together, these findings show how early neuronal activity helps shape both the functional organization and molecular identity of the developing visual cortex.