Neural Plasticity Lab

Brain plasticity is the lifelong ability of the brain to reorganize neural pathways based on new experiences. As we learn, we acquire new knowledge and skills through instruction or experience. In order to learn or memorize a fact or skill, there must be persistent functional changes in the brain that represent the new knowledge. The ability of the brain to change with learning is what is known as neuroplasticity.

We witness a unique restructuring of the aging pattern in the societies of the industrial nations, characterized by an increasing probability to reach old age. This calls for a more comprehensive understanding of the different facets of aging. In this scenario, the preservation of every-day life competence of aged populations becomes increasingly important for maintaining an independent life style at old age.

The sense of touch - the most underestimated sense. What is its role and relevance in a world largly governed by visual media? What makes it different from other senses? We study properties and particularities of tactile perception to facilitate understanding of both neural tactile processing and of "haptic design" principles.

Compared to activities such as physical exercising or playing an instrument, dance comprises – beyond requirements for physical activity, rhythmic motor coordination, balance and memory – emotions, affection, social interaction, acoustic stimulation, and musical experience. This unique property, leading to a general acceptance and high compliance, is a powerful determinant for an ideal intervention in the elderly.

Utilizing the knowledge about brain plasticity accumulated over the last years, we suggested that specific stimulation protocols can be designed through which it becomes feasible to change purposefully brain organization and thus perception and behavior, thereby ameliorating sensorimotor impairment in stroke patients.