Neuronale Oszillationen und Synchronisation in der menschlichen Schmerzverarbeitung

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The complex experience of pain is subserved by an extended network of brain areas. Recent evidence shows that painful stimuli modulate neuronal oscillations and synchrony in parts of the cerebral pain network. However, a comprehensive spatial and temporal characterization of pain-related neuronal oscillations and synchrony has not yet been carried out. Moreover, the functional significance of these pain-related phenomena has remained largely unknown. We will therefore use electroencephalography to investigate pain-induced oscillations and synchrony in the human brain. In a series of four experiments, we will apply advanced analysis techniques to spatially and temporally determine pain-induced neuronal oscillations in different frequency bands. Furthermore, we will explore synchrony between local oscillations as a measure of pain-related communication between brain areas. Pain-induced oscillations and synchrony will be related to spontaneous neuronal oscillations and to the well-known pain-evoked responses. Different perceptual and motor paradigms will be applied to investigate the functional significance of pain-induced oscillations and synchrony for the perception of and behavioral reactions to pain. The project is thus intended to provide a spatial, temporal and functional synopsis of neurophysiological phenomena in the human brain related to the complex experience of pain.