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Christian Hansel is a Professor in the Department of Neurobiology at the University of Chicago. His research focuses on neural networks and their ability to store information and learn by adapting synaptic communications dependent on neuronal activity. He investigates the formation of 'synaptic memory', bi-directional processes like long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) that are critical for behavioral learning. His laboratory examines both synaptic and non-synaptic plasticity in the cerebellum, a brain area involved in fine motor adaptation and cognitive functions. Christian's work includes exploring Purkinje cells, the cellular correlates of motor learning, and the mechanisms of associative learning. He employs various techniques, including patch-clamp recordings and confocal calcium imaging, to study the molecular foundations of learning and memory. He also explores the effects of alcohol on cerebellar functions and motor adaptation, as well as the implications of cerebellar associative learning deficits in autism spectrum disorder.
Department of Philosophy