Underlying the visible symptoms of brain diseases are specific neurobiological mechanisms which scientists are beginning to understand. A giant leap in this understanding may soon come via the research of Kafui Dzirasa, M.D., Ph.D., 2013 One Mind/Janssen Rising Star Award winner. He plans to figure out the patterns in which brain regions sync up to form functional circuits in healthy mice, how they get out of sync in mice modeling different brain diseases, and then attempt to restore functional synchrony and healthy behavior to the diseased mice. If he succeeds, he will not only reveal a picture of how brain disease symptoms arise from circuit malfunction, but also originate a new line of development for neuroelectrical stimulation remedies for these diseases.

In this month’s Brain Waves, I present a lively interview with Dr. Dzirasa on his exciting plan. The Q&A period is now closed. Thanks to Gayle for participating! And thank you, Kaf!

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