Neuromodulatory Mechanisms Underlying Flexible Brain Functions and Behavior

Brains adjust information processing and optimize behaviors in response to ever-changing environmental demands. This astonishing flexibility relies on the modulation of brain functions at multiple levels, from synapses to neural circuits. The modulation of brain functions regulates basic biological states such as feeding, sleep or sex, and it is of key importance for cognitive brain functions such as attention and learning. Deep insights into neuromodulation are not only critical to understand the neural basis of intelligence and behavior but also to understand brain dysfunctions underlying disease. The 2019 GRC conference on “Modulation of Neural Circuits and Behavior” will bring together scientists with diverse backgrounds to discuss current concepts and exciting new results in this broad field. The meeting will cut across disciplines and focus on topics that have a high potential to synergize. We expect that the organized and informal discussions will generate valuable new insights and highlight promising directions of future progress.