B7: Controlling neural wave dynamics by nonlocal and time-delayed feedback

Principal investigator*:

Prof. Dr. Eckehard Schöll, PhD

Project summary:

We aim to investigate theoretically how internal control mechanisms in the brain prevent the emergence of nonlinear excitation waves based on reaction-diffusion, i.e.,  spreading depression (SD), and how, if they fail, SD waves can be suppressed by external feedback control. SD is  a pathological activity of the human cortex, and is related to migraine, stroke, and various kinds of brain injury.  Control of SD by external neuromodulation is of clinical importance because SD causes transient neurological deficits and subsequently headache (migraine) or permanent brain damage (stroke and brain injury).

*from 01.01.2011 - 30.09.2012: Dr. Markus Dahlem, Prof. Dr. Eckehard Schöll, PhD