GRK 2416: MultiSenses-MultiScales: Novel approaches to decipher neural processing in multisensory integration

多感觉过程是支撑感知、认知、学习和行为的基础。然而，大脑无缝整合大量同时多感官输入的能力的结构和功能架构却知之甚少。跨多个尺度-从细胞到网络和系统级别-专门的机制使跨模态处理成为可能。在此之前，多感觉整合被认为主要发生在更高层次的皮层，并在与时空刺激特性相关的计算原理的理论框架内进行了研究。最近，它已经变得很明显，（i）物理刺激属性不完全占多感官戒律，（ii）感官加工流相互影响，甚至在非常早期的阶段，和（iii）多感官加工是可塑性和动态的。虽然这些发现挑战了许多传统的跨通道整合的观点，我们仍然缺乏一个连贯的图片的神经基础的多感觉神经元的形成。一些根本性的问题仍然没有答案。因此，RTG 2416的目标是从概念上理解在多个尺度上控制感觉信息的跨模态整合的机制。通过实施独特的MultiSenses-MultiScales方法，我们在多感觉神经科学的几个领域大大提高了我们的知识。该RTG提供感觉神经生物学方面的深入专业知识，培养跨学科合作的精神，并提供各种尖端技术的实践培训。RTG联盟是实现这些雄心勃勃的目标的理想选择。因此，我们培养从细胞到系统和行为过渡的专家个人，从而为各种职业道路做好准备。一个连贯而灵活的课程在神经科学的核心概念中建立了坚实的基础。此外，一个专门的课程计划是针对个人需求。结合创新的资格要素，专业技能发展，以及最重要的是在培养环境中进行独立研究的机会，我们培养能够在最高国际水平上竞争的神经科学家。总之，RTG 2416已成为国内和国际博士研究人员感兴趣的多感觉整合的机制基础的主要位置。

Multisensory processes are fundamental in scaffolding perception, cognition, learning, and behavior. However, the structural and functional architecture that underlies the brain’s ability to seamlessly integrate a multitude of simultaneous multisensory inputs is poorly understood. Across multiple scales – from cellular to network and systems levels – specialized mechanisms enable crossmodal processing. Previously, multisensory integration was considered to primarily occur in higher-level cortices and was examined within a theoretical framework of computational principles associated with spatiotemporal stimulus characteristics. More recently, it has become evident that (i) physical stimulus attributes do not fully account for multisensory precepts, (ii) sensory processing streams affect one another even at very early stages, and (iii) multisensory processing is plastic and dynamic. While these findings have challenged many traditional views of crossmodal integration, we still lack a coherent picture of the neural basis underlying multisensory percept formation. Fundamental questions remain unanswered. Therefore, the goal of RTG 2416 is to gain a conceptual understanding of the mechanisms that govern crossmodal integration of sensory information at multiple scales. By implementing a unique MultiSenses–MultiScales approach, we substantially advance our knowledge in several areas of multisensory neuroscience. This RTG provides in-depth expertise in sensory neurobiology, fosters the spirit of transdisciplinary collaboration, and offers hands-on training in a variety of cutting-edge techniques . The RTG consortium is ideally suited to achieve these ambitious goals. Consequently, we train expert individuals that make the transition from cells to systems and behavior, thus, preparing trainees for various career paths. A coherent, though flexible curriculum builds a solid foundation in the core concepts of neuroscience. In addition, a specialized course program is tailored to individual needs. Combined with innovative qualification elements, professional skill development and – most importantly – the opportunity to conduct independent research in a nurturing environment, we train neuroscientists that can compete at the highest international level. In summary, RTG 2416 has become a prime location for both national and international doctoral researchers interested in the mechanistic foundation of multisensory integration.