CRCNS: The Evolution of the Mammalian Connectome

神经系统是复杂的网络，由大脑各个区域的神经元组成， 通过突触连接和区域间通路相互连接。虽然已经做出了很多努力， 扩展到绘制人类和一些模式生物的连接体，一个更系统的 迄今为止，还缺乏跨许多物种的连接体的比较获取和分析。所以 形成连接体结构的进化过程在很大程度上是未知的。这里我们 通过从大量哺乳动物物种中生成连通性数据， 以便进行全面和比较性的网络分析，并将网络特征与 进化的解剖学和行为适应。在磁共振成像专家的带领下， 网络理论和行为，这个跨学科的团队将a）创建一个独特的前所未有的数据库 哺乳动物连接体（覆盖所有哺乳动物物种的5%），使用尖端的 B）配置和部署网络分析技术，以挖掘这些 数据和发现追踪跨物种连接体进化的模式;以及c）制定 并测试特定的假设，阐明大脑连接之间关系的进化模式， 和行为。因此，该项目将创造一个前所未有的机会，研究 哺乳动物的连接体。 相关性（参见说明）： 复杂的大脑网络使人类的认知和行为得以实现并支持。该项目将揭示 网络组织的原则，在广泛的物种在哺乳动物类，包括 那些常用的模式生物，如非人类灵长类动物和啮齿类动物。所得 知识将阐明大脑网络的进化起源，从而为我们提供新的见解。 它们在人类中的神经生物学功能和功能障碍。

Nervous systems are complex networks, composed of neurons in various brain regions that are interconnected by synaptic connections and inter-regional pathways. While much effort has been expended to map the connectome of humans and a few model organisms, a more systematic comparative acquisition and analysis of connectomes across many species is lacking so far. Hence, the evolutionary processes that have shaped connectome architecture are largely unknown. Here, we address this gap in knowledge by generating connectivity data from a large set of mammalian species in order to allow comprehensive and comparative network analysis as well as to relate network features to evolutionary anatomic and behavioral adaptations. Lead by experts in magnetic resonance imaging, network theory and behavior, this interdisciplinary team will a) create a unique unprecedented data base of mammalian connectomes (covering 5% of all mammalian species), acquired using cutting-edge diffusion imaging and tractography; b) configure and deploy network analysis techniques to mine these data and discover patterns that trace the evolution of the connectome across species; and c) formulate and test specific hypotheses that illuminate evolutionary patterns in the relation between brain connectivity and behavior. The project will thus create a first-of-its-kind opportunity to study the evolution of the connectome across the mammalian class. RELEVANCE (See instructions): Complex brain networks enable and support human cognition and behavior. This project will reveal principles of network organization across a broad range of species in the mammalian class, including those of commonly used model organisms such as non-human primates and rodents. The resulting knowledge will illuminate the evolutionary origins of brain networks and thus provide new insights into their neurobiological function and dysfunction in humans.