• Brain-body communication: reciprocal mechanisms for homeostasis

  • Date October 15
  • Time 13:00-14:40
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  Jong-Woo Sohn / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Hyung Jin Choi / Seoul National University

Brain and body communicate and work together to maintain homeostasis, which is the state of equilibrium or balance in the internal environment of our body. In particular, the hypothalamus and the brainstem are responsible for coordinating the activity of all the body’s systems, which includes endocrine organs, digestive tract, skeletal muscle and even microbiome to secure homeostasis. In this symposium, there will be cutting-edge researchers on bi-directional communication between brain and peripheral organs.

• Beta and gamma bursts: the neural oscillatory underpinnings of higher-order cognitive processing

  • Date October 15
  • Time 13:00-14:40
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Jee Hyun Choi / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

  Hye-Young Shin / Seoul National University

  Moderator

  Jee Hyun Choi / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

This symposium is dedicated to improving our understanding of transient oscillations in the beta and gamma frequency bands, which are increasingly recognised as crucial for interpreting the neural mechanisms of cognition and behaviour. The aim is to further explore the underlying neural mechanisms associated with these cognitive processes and to identify new avenues of research. The agenda includes an examination of the role of beta bursts in predictive coding, the interplay between beta and gamma bursts in cognitive functioning, the neural circuitry underlying beta and gamma bursts, and the clinical implications that these bursts may have. It is expected that the symposium will act as a conduit for the exchange of the latest research on beta and gamma bursts and their role in higher-level cognitive processing, encompassing studies in mice, monkeys and humans.

• Mechanisms of pain, itch, touch and interoception

  • Date October 15
  • Time 13:00-14:40
  • Location Hall 4

  Organizer

  Greg Seong-Bae Suh / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Greg Seong-Bae Suh / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

Humans and many other organisms use their five senses to gather the physicial and chemical information from the external world. The noceiceptive system and its associated touch, itch and pain sensations rely not only on the external senses, but require interceptive sensing. This symposium will explore recent advances in our understanding of mammalian somatosensation that highlight the use of cutting-edge technologies and reveal novel mechanisms involved genes, neural circuits and behavior. We will also reserve time for a short talk that represents another type of interoceptive sensing in animal. Our goal is to encourage the sharing unpublished data, promote lively discussions and foster new collaborations across the field.

• Advances in speech brain-computer interfaces: from mapping to synthesis

  • Date October 15
  • Time 13:00-14:40
  • Location Hall 5

  Organizer

  Chun Kee Chung / Seoul National University

  Moderator

  Chun Kee Chung / Seoul National University

Communication, crucial for human interaction, encompasses two key aspects: perception and production. This symposium delves into the advanced Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology, focusing on neural mechanisms underlying these processes and state-of-the-art deep learning architectures. This symposium deals with crucial challenges such as intelligibility, controllability based on speech processing in human brain. We expect this symposium will provide insights into innovative frameworks and applications revolutionizing the field of speech BCI. Appealing to a diverse audience interested in the intersection of technology and science, this symposium bridges pioneering electrodes recording neural activities, brain stimulation to evoke perception, and BCIs to reconstruct one’s intention.

• Neuroimmune regulation of brain physiology and pathology

  • Date October 16
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 1

  Organizer

  Han Kyoung Choe / Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Han Kyoung Choe / Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology

The neuroimmune interaction emerges as a key player in regulating the physiology and pathology of the brain as well as controlling immune functions. The crosstalk between the nervous system and the immune system embraces multiple types of organs, tissues, and cells, requiring comprehensive investigation at multiple levels. To facilitate understanding of current advances in neuroimmune interaction, we aim to collect leading scientists focusing on each critical player - traditional immune system, brain-blood barrier, glial cells, and even brain-resident immune cells. This session will provide a comprehensive introduction and discussion of the diverse types of neuroimmune interaction and their physiological and pathological consequences, with the hope of incubating international collaboration.

• Navigating complexity: symposium on advancements in 3D neural organoid models for understanding brain disorders and neurodevelopment

  • Date October 16
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  Chul Hoon Kim / Yonsei University

  ChangHui Pak / University of Massachusetts Amherst

  Moderator

  Chul Hoon Kim / Yonsei University

In the past decade, human pluripotent stem cell derived 3D neural organoids have become invaluable tools for modeling early developmental processes and central nervous system disorders. As neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders are shaped by underlying complex human genetic backgrounds which ultimately modify the disease risk, onset, and progression, human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) grants direct access to unique human genetic backgrounds for experimental exploration. This symposium aims to showcase ongoing research by early-stage investigators who have utilized 3D neural organoid models to gain insights into the complexities of brain disorders and neurodevelopment. By focusing on the intersection of advanced cellular models and complex genetic influences, the speakers will present recent findings contributing to our understanding of translational research.

• Neural mechanisms underlying episodic memory formation: insights from cross-species comparisons in hippocampal function

  • Date October 16
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Sang Ah Lee / Seoul National University

  Moderator

  Sang Ah Lee / Seoul National University

  Inah Lee / Seoul National University

The critical role of the hippocampus in spatial and episodic memory has been documented across many species across the phylogenetic tree. While the field has benefited immensely from the wide range of studies on hippocampal function, it still remains a challenge to bring together unique insights from each species into a comprehensive understanding of how episodic memory works. In this symposium, expert neuroscientists in the field of memory research across rodents, non-human primates, and humans will share their recent findings on hippocampal processes measured at the level of single neurons, brain oscillations, and functional neuroimaging. In discussing both common and unique characteristics of spatial and episodic memory across multiple species, we hope to provide a fresh perspective on how such evolutionarily ancient neural mechanisms give rise to our daily experience of episodic memory. By bridging research across subfields of behavioral and cognitive neuroscience, this symposium will interest researchers from various areas of neuroscience and the broad KSBNS community.

• Shining light on astrocytes: role of reactive astrocytes in neurological disorders

  • Date October 16
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 4

  Organizer

  Heejung Chun / Yonsei University

  Tae-In Kam / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Heejung Chun / Yonsei University

  Tae-In Kam / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

Astrocytes play multiple and essential roles in brain function. In response to various pathological stimuli, reactive astrocytes exhibit molecular, structural and functional alterations and play an important role in the pathogenesis of neurological disorders. Reactive astrocytes lose their homeostatic function and have beneficial and/or detrimental effects on disease progression. Although in vivo research ranging from molecular and cellular levels to behavioral levels are challenging, research into the relevant mechanisms and diagnosis of neurological disorders through reactive astrocytes is actively ongoing. This symposium will in-depth discuss the role of reactive astrocytes and diagnostic/therapeutic strategies for treating neurological disorders and will shed light on the enigmatic roles and mechanisms of astrocytes in the brain.

• Regulation of neuronal functions by RNA-binding proteins in health and diseases

  • Date October 16
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 5

  Organizer

  Kwok-On Lai / City University of Hong Kong

  Moderator

  Kwok-On Lai / City University of Hong Kong

In this symposium, four international speakers will share their recent findings that provide new insights into RBP functions in neurons. Sourav Banerjee (National Brain Research Centre of India) will discuss a novel way to regulate local mRNA translation via FUS and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) at the synapse and its role in learning and memory. Che-Kun James Shen (Academia Sinica, Taiwan) will present a new role and mechanism of TDP-43 in pre-mRNA splicing in a transgenic mouse model of ALS. Nobuyuki Shiina (National Institutes of Natural Sciences) will describe an unconventional mechanism by which FUS and TDP-43 control local translation during synapse formation. Kwok-On Lai (City University of Hong Kong) will discuss a strategy that involves transplantation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) to demonstrate how chronic behavioural stress interacts with ALS-related FUS gene mutation to aggravate the disease phenotypes of human neurons in vivo.

• Mechanobiology in the nervous system

  • Date October 16
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 1

  Organizer

  Soo-Jin Oh / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

  Uhtaek Oh / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Soo-Jin Oh / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

  Uhtaek Oh / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

Mechanobiology in the nervous system explores how mechanical forces influence the structure, function, and development of neural tissues. This symposium delves into the intricate relationship between mechanical cues/stimuli and neuronal/glial processes, from molecular and cellular responses to tissue-level organization. Experts will discuss topics such as mechanotransduction primarily mediated by mechanosensitive ion channels in brain cells and the impact of biomechanical forces on signal transduction and cellular homeostasis. Cutting-edge research will unravel the fascinating interplay between mechanics and neurobiology and broaden our understanding of the complexity and resilience of the nervous system.

• Adversity on the growing brain: from mouse to man

  • Date October 16
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  June-Seek Choi / Korea University

  Moderator

  June-Seek Choi / Korea University

Despite the paramount importance of adverse experience during early development on cognition and emotion in later stages of life, only a small number of studies have addressed this issue. In this symposium, four distinguished researchers from Hong Kong, Australia, and Korea will introduce the latest findings from their laboratories using rodents and human subjects. The audience in this symposium session is guaranteed to gain valuable insights into how stress and trauma during different stages of development modulate neurobehavioral systems in adolescence and adulthood.

• Transcriptomic and epitranscriptomic regulation of brain function and experience-dependent plasticity

  • Date October 16
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Anthony Hannan / University of Melbourne

  Moderator

  Anthony Hannan / University of Melbourne

In this symposium, we bring together international speakers who are investigating novel aspects of RNA biology, in the context of neurodevelopment, experience-dependent plasticity, and other aspects of brain function, and dysfunction. The topics within transcriptomics and epitranscriptomics covered will include circular RNAs, small noncoding RNAs, long noncoding RNAs and RNA modifications. This symposium will share novel insights regarding the various ways in which RNA biology can mediate, and modulate, a wide range of processes within the developing and mature nervous system. Symposium attendees will be encouraged to consider RNA not only as medium for information transfer between DNA and protein levels, but also the wider realm of functional RNAs, and their key roles in brain development, function, and dysfunction.

• The complex function of the lateral habenula complex

  • Date October 16
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 4

  Organizer

  Jung-Soo Han / Konkuk University

  ChiHye Chung / Konkuk University

  Moderator

  Jung-Soo Han / Konkuk University

Over the past ten years, there has been a significant surge in interest in the lateral habenula (LHb) due to recent discoveries highlighting its crucial role in controlling negatively driven behavior and its involvement in reward prediction as well as stress response. The LHb receives inputs from diverse limbic forebrain/basal ganglia structures, and targets essentially all midbrain neuromodulatory systems, including all the monoamine systems: so is anatomically well-positioned to integrate valence-based information to regulate various motivational and cognitive processes. We will discuss how emotional contagion promotes coping behaviors in conditions of heightened stress, and how this part of the emotional brain can determine social behaviors. We will expand the discussion to the role of the lateral habenula during the rewarding and aversive conditions in virtual reality as well as during conditioned inhibition, a fundamental component of associative learning. This symposium will shed light on the recent studies regarding the more complex function of the LHb.

• Neurobiology of drug addiction

  • Date October 16
  • Time 17:00-18:40
  • Location Hall 1

  Organizer

  Joung Hun Kim / Pohang University of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Joung Hun Kim / Pohang University of Science and Technology

Repeated exposure to a drug of abuse induces neuronal and synaptic changes in the brain, leading to the compulsive seeking and use of drugs, and the loss of control over drug consumption. This addiction imposes a significant social and economic burden on the community. However, the processes through which addiction memory is established, perpetuated, and amplified remain unclear. Research on addiction memory utilizes various tools and concepts to elucidate the causal components of addictive states, understand the neural mechanisms involved, and develop effective therapeutic interventions. At this symposium, prominent researchers actively investigating addiction memory will present new findings that contribute to a deeper understanding of how molecular, cellular, and circuit changes in the nervous system dictate addiction memory and compulsive behavior.

• Neuronal dynamics in the prefrontal cortex: insights into plasticity, physiology, and pathology

  • Date October 16
  • Time 17:00-18:40
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  Won Chan Oh / University of Colorado

  Moderator

  Won Chan Oh / University of Colorado

Proper synaptic plasticity is essential for neural circuit function, and conversely, altered synaptic dynamics impair neuronal activity and are thought to underlie the pathology of brain disorders including ASDs. This idea is supported by the observation of increased synapse number in the frontal lobe in ASD brains. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a brain region associated with higher cognition that is shown to be disrupted in ASDs; yet, key questions remain unanswered concerning the neurobiological mechanisms that mediate the detrimental effects of altered synaptic and neuronal activity on PFC function. This symposium will bring together rising neuroscientists, leading experts in the synaptic and cellular basis of neuronal plasticity, to discuss the most recent advances in the field. A diverse group of 4 speakers will present recent findings on PFC function and dysfunction that are relevant to the major theme of this symposium.

• A journey towards neurodegenerative disorder cures: navigating scientific frontiers in conjunction with Women's Bioscience Forum

  • Date October 16
  • Time 17:00-18:40
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Eun Jeong Lee / Ajou University

  Moderator

  Eun Jeong Lee / Ajou University

  Mikyoung Park / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

With the aging society, there is an increasing societal demand for research in the field of neuroscience, particularly in degenerative brain diseases. We would like to introduce female scientists actively contributing to various research methods in the diverse field of neurodegenerative diseases to KSBNS participants. Through this, we hope to encourage the influx of more women scientists into the field of neuroscience, introduce new perspectives in neurodegenerative disease research, and foster numerous collaborations.

• From natural intelligence to brain disease models in non-human primates

  • Date October 17
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 1

  Organizer

  Joonyeol Lee / Sungkyunkwan University

  Hyoung F. Kim / Seoul National University

  Moderator

  Joonyeol Lee / Sungkyunkwan University

This interdisciplinary symposium brings together experts in primate systems neuroscience and medical research. It explores primate intelligence's complexity and its implications for understanding the human brain, particularly in the context of brain diseases. Topics include natural intelligence in social settings, neural circuit mechanisms for efficient decision-making, and cutting-edge genetic techniques for modeling mental diseases in non-human primates. The symposium welcomes researchers, clinicians, students, and anyone interested in primate research, systems neuroscience, and brain disease studies. It offers a comprehensive overview of current research and fosters discussions on future directions in this field.

• Emerging insights in neuroimmunology and pain

  • Date October 17
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  Chul-Kyu Park / Gachon University

  Sun Wook Hwang / Korea University

  Moderator

  Seog Bae Oh (Seoul National University)

The 'Emerging Insights in Neuroimmunology and Pain' symposium explores the nexus between the nervous system and immune responses in pain. Focusing on how interleukins, microglia, and macrophages affect neuropathic pain, it integrates cutting-edge research on molecular pathways with clinical implications. Highlights include gender-specific neuroimmunological responses and novel therapeutic strategies. This interdisciplinary event appeals to researchers and clinicians, fostering dialogues and inspiring new treatments.

• Novel pathomechanisms and therapeutic targets in neurological disorders: latest in translational neurochemistry

  • Date October 17
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Jee Hyun Kim / Deakin University

  Moderator

  Jee Hyun Kim / Deakin University

  Kensuke Ikenaka / Osaka University

In this symposium, professor Tohda will open the symposium with her latest findings using Alzheimer’s disorder model mice that showed how phytochemical diosgenin (a constituent of yam) can reverse axon damage, change gene expression, and improve memory. This allowed a clinical trial of yam extract, which confirmed its benefit on cognition in people with mild Alzheimer’s disorder. Associate Professor Cheung will then follow with research showing the novel link between vascular injury and neuroinflammation, showing a potential causal pathomechanism of cognitive dysfunction associated with brain hypoxia due to vascular injury. This research offers new therapeutic targets to treat neurovascular conditions such as vascular dementia. Dr Senesi will then propose how the misfolding of proteins such as prion in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a key mechanism that may apply across many neurological disorders including dementia. Such novel theory allows new therapeutic avenues to interfere with protein misfolding such as antibodies and antisense nucleotides to treat various neurological disorders. Lastly, Assistant Professor Ikenaka will present the novel discovery of lysosomal accumulation of KSBNS-APSN2024 SYMPOSIUM phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PIP3) as an upstream pathomechanism to α-synuclein accumulation in Parkinson's disease across many model organisms as well as patient brain samples. This finding offers new therapeutic targets for a pre-emptive treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Professor Jee Hyun Kim will chair with Assistant Professor Ikenaka (co-chair) to lead an impartial discussion of the presented findings and potential questions.

• Activity-dependent regulation in brain development: insights into normal development and epilepsy

  • Date October 17
  • Time 09:00-10:40
  • Location Hall 5

  Organizer

  Dan Ohtan Wang / New York University Abu Dhabi

  Moderator

  Dan Ohtan Wang / New York University Abu Dhabi

  Chunyue Geoffrey LAU / City University of Hong Kong

Brain development is a highly regulated phenomenon in which a variety of processes are involved, including synaptic plasticity, synapse formation and elimination, excitation-inhibition balance, transcriptional control, and translational control. This symposium aims to capture some of the latest findings in neural development and its malfunction that is implicated in disease states like epilepsy. We have brought together four internationally recognized speakers with wide-ranging research interests and expertise. Dr. Dan Ohtan WANG (NYU Abu Dhabi) is an expert in epigenetic regulation of synapse formation and will be a Co-Chair. Dr. Geoffrey LAU (City University of Hong Kong) will be a Co-Chair and speaker. He will speak about how a limbic region, anterior piriform (olfactory) cortex is involved in temporal lobe epilepsy. Dr. Zhuo HUANG (Peking University) will speak about epilepsy and how environmental cues can trigger seizure bouts in a phenomenon called conditioned seizure memory. Dr. Jacque IP (The Chinese University of Hong Kong) will speak about visual cortical development and its relationship with an epilepsy-related neurodevelopmental disorder. Dr. Kyung-Min NOH (EMBL Heidelberg) will speak about epigenetic regulation induced by BDNF and its implications in epilepsy. Together, the topics and methodology brought forth will illustrate our current understanding and innovation in neural development and epilepsy, making this symposium a timely and engaging one.

• Exploring neurodegenerative disorders: navigating the inner and outer realms of the brain

  • Date October 17
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 1

  Organizer

  Eunha Kim / Korea University

  Moderator

  Eunha Kim / Korea University

Neurodegenerative brain disorders present complex challenges that extend beyond the confines of the brain itself. Recent research suggests that the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders is not solely confined to localized brain dysfunction but involves a dynamic interplay with various extra-cranial factors. This symposium aims to illuminate the intricate web of connections between the brain and external organs, with a special emphasis on the gut, immune system, and microbiome. Understanding the mechanisms operating both within the brain and in collaboration with peripheral organs is crucial for advancing our comprehension of these debilitating conditions. By delving into the molecular and cellular mechanisms within the brain and exploring the interconnectedness with peripheral organs, we aim to unravel the complex tapestry of neurodegenerative disorders.

• Sensory processing: updates and storage of sensory information in prefrontal and parietal cortex

  • Date October 17
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  Jong-Cheol Rah / Korea Brain Research Institute

  Moderator

  Jong-Cheol Rah / Korea Brain Research Institute

In the session ‘Sensory processing: Updates and storage of sensory information in prefrontal and parietal cortex’, we will explore the neural underpinnings of perception and short-term memory. In the session, we will explore the synergy of electrophysiology, calcium imaging and MRI in unraveling the mysteries of perception and short-term memory. This interdisciplinary approach will offer a comprehensive view of how senses are interpreted, stored, and manipulated. The session will foster collaboration among the scientists in the fields of cognitive, systems, and molecular neuroscience. Sensory information is processed in a dynamically regulated manner to successfully adapt to an ever-changing environment. During the session we will explore the dynamic network changes in response to rule-change, updated reward information, or simply during errors in short-term memory. We will explore the synergy of electrophysiology, calcium imaging and MRI in unraveling the mysteries of perception and short-term memory. This interdisciplinary approach will offer a comprehensive view of how senses are interpreted, stored, and manipulated. The session will foster collaboration among the scientists in the fields of cognitive, systems, and molecular neuroscience.

• Synapse, circuits and systems: new approaches to understanding memory

  • Date October 17
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Thomas McHugh / RIKEN

  Min-Ho Nam / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Thomas McHugh / RIKEN

  Min-Ho Nam / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

Our quest to understand memory builds on fundamental work addressing the molecular, synaptic, physiological and behavioral processes engaged during learning. Over the last decade rapid technological advancements on all these level, harnessing progress in machine learning, high-density imaging and recording, high-throughput genomics and proteomics and genetic tools for circuit characterization and manipulation, has accelerated progress in the field and uncovered new and surprising connections between levels of investigation. This session will showcase the application of these emerging approaches, including large-scale in vivo electrophysiology, whole-brain synaptome mapping, and virtual reality based brain-machine interfaces, to long-standing questions of how mammalian brains encode and use memories, as well as inspire researchers across all fields to harness these tools in their own work.

• Integrative insights into neurobiology: from physiological neural models to neurodegenerative diseases and drug discovery

  • Date October 17
  • Time 14:00-15:40
  • Location Hall 4

  Organizer

  Sunmo Oh / Bio-Medical Science Co., Ltd.

  Hyungmin Im / CHAYON Laboratories, Inc.

  Moderator

  Jason Hamlin / STEMCELL Technologies, Inc.

The suggested symposium theme, "Integrative Insights into Neurobiology: From Physiological Neural Models to Neurodegenerative Diseases and Drug Discovery," encompasses a comprehensive exploration of various facets of neuroscience research. The first topic emphasizes the use of physiological neural model systems to delve into studies related to brain development, neuronal maturation, and neuroinflammation. The second topic shifts the focus to utilizing microplate readers in unraveling neurodegenerative diseases, specifically highlighting prion research and protein aggregation. Finally, the third topic underscores the power of in vitro systems using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models for advancing drug discovery. This amalgamation of diverse themes aims to encompass the broad spectrum of neuroscience while emphasizing practical and applicable research domains.

• Exploring the neural circuit representation of cognitive dynamics

  • Date October 18
  • Time 9:00-11:00
  • Location Hall 1

  Organizer

  Ain Chung / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

  Jaekyung Kim / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Min Whan Jung / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

The symposium unveils novel perspectives on information storage and utilization, framing them as highly dynamic information processing phenomena. The plasticity of neural networks enables long-term stored information to enhance cognitive abilities, and the decision-making process intricately integrates current sensory input with stored value information. The symposium delves into the intricate information integration processes of cognition at the neural network level and aims to shed light on how these dynamic cognitive processes are represented and stored in the brain. Topics include the influence of neural activity during sleep on memory formation, the role of neuroplasticity in enhancing cognitive abilities, and the complex neural integration of olfactory and auditory input in decision-making. Through the symposium, attendees will gain insights into the cutting-edge research conducted by emerging neuroscientists who are actively investigating the neural correlates of cognition.

• Neural circuit dysfunctions in autism spectrum disorders

  • Date October 18
  • Time 9:00-11:00
  • Location Hall 2

  Organizer

  Seung-Hee Lee / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

  Co-organizer

  Institute for Basic Science (IBS)
  

  Moderator

  Seung-Hee Lee / Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by deficits in reciprocal social communication and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. It is highly heritable but regarded as a spectrum disorder, co-occurring with other diverse conditions. This symposium aims to present the most recent advancements in understanding neural circuit mechanisms governing pathological conditions in ASD. Esteemed neuroscientists will be featured in this symposium, encompassing both male and female speakers from the United States, Japan, and Korea. Each presenter in this symposium has employed state-of-the-art methodologies to delineate critical neural circuits underlying social deficits, sleep disturbances, memory deficits, and sensory dysfunctions in ASD mouse models. The symposium anticipates drawing a considerable audience interested in new aspects of brain dysfunctions in ASD.

• Neurobiological insights of neurodevelopmental disorders

  • Date October 18
  • Time 09:00-11:00
  • Location Hall 3

  Organizer

  Scientific Program Committees of the KSBNS and AKN

  Moderator

  Seonil Kim / Colorado State University

  Sang Ki Park / Pohang University of Science and Technology

Neurodevelopmental disorders are types of disorder that alters neurological development, causing difficulties in a wide range of brain functions. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders can experience difficulties with language and speech, motor skills, behavior, memory, learning, or other neurological functions. Causes are heterogeneous ranging from social deprivation, genetic and metabolic diseases, immune disorders, infectious diseases, nutritional factors, physical trauma, and toxic and environmental factors. However, our current knowledge of neurobiological mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders is far from complete. The current symposium aims to bring attention to research on neurobiological mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disorders.

• Plasticity beyond synapses: astrocyte morphoplasticity

  • Date October 18
  • Time 9:00-11:00
  • Location Hall 4

  Organizer

  Wuhyun Koh / Institute for Basic Science

  C. Justin Lee / Institute for Basic Science

  Moderator

  Wuhyun Koh / Institute for Basic Science

The concept of "brain plasticity" often conjures images of synaptic connections between neurons, both in the minds of neuroscientists and the general public. Our goal is to expand beyond this traditional viewpoint by proposing a symposium focused on the plasticity of astrocytes surrounding synapses. This session aims to highlight the significance of morphological plasticity—termed here as morphoplasticity—and explore its role in influencing cognitive functions within the brain.

• Searching for the principles of neural networks: theoretical approaches

  • Date October 18
  • Time 9:00-11:00
  • Location Hall 5

  Organizer

  Taegon Kim / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

  Moderator

  Taegon Kim / Korea Institute of Science and Technology

Although modern neuroscience reveals the mechanism of specific brain functions and recent artificial neural network models demonstrate powerful performance on specific tasks, understanding how neural networks whether implemented naturally in the brain or artificially could generate such functions have been considered still enigmatic. Thus, this symposium session will focus on the effort to find out the general principles underlying how neural networks work in computational neuroscience. The topics in this symposium are selected and organized to promote in-depth discussions from a variety of perspectives, ranging from the conventional dynamics of neurons and synapses to the recently highlighted properties of neural networks, such as modulation or information processing cost.