Gur Aryeh
Research Institute
Complexity - Networks
Emergence - Adaptive Persistence
Minimal Models of
Self-Awareness and
Cognitive Deterioration
We investigate the relationship between neural dynamics
and cognitive functions, from basic mechanisms of
self-awareness to age-related cognitive decline. Our goal is to develop conceptual frameworks and reduced mathematical models that correlate neural and cognitive levels and explore strategies to intervene to prevent or reduce Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Key Research Questions
1. Neural-Cognitive Correlation
How do neural dynamics
give rise to cognitive functions,
including self-awareness,
memory, and executive functions,
and how can thev be quantitatively
correlated?
2. Cognitive Deterioration and Alzheimer's Disease
What neural and network
changes underlie cognitive
decline and Alzheimer's disease
and related dementias, and how
can they be detected and
modeled?
3. Intervention Strategies
What mechanisms and
interventions could prevent or
reduce cognitive deterioration,
including Alzheimer's disease,
and preserve or restore neural
and cognitive functions over time?
Research Approach
Multiscale Modeling
Develop reduced models that link
synaptic dynamics, neural circuits,
brain network dynamics, and
cognitive functions across multiple
spatial and temporal scales.
Network and Dynamical Analysis
Model brain dynamics as
multi-stable systems, investigate
critical transitions and early
indicators of cognitive decline,
and identify control strategies to
avoid transitions to pathological
states.
Intervention Modeling
Use conceptual and reduced
mathematical models to evaluate
the potential of pharmacological.
neuromodulatory, and lifestyle-related interventions to prevent or reduce Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Current Status and Collaboration
In the current phase, we are developing
a relational ontology and model prototypes
to generate stable structures.
Interested in collaborating?
We welcome researchers
interested in the fundamental
foundations of physics.