Neuronal circuits: development, organization and function

ABSTRACT: 
	Accurate wiring of billions of neurons in the nervous system underlies normal functioning of the brain, and forms the basis of behavioural outputs. This phenomenal feat of establishing precise connectivity patterns is achieved because the neuronal processes accurately navigate their way to their targets in the dynamic and complex environment of the developing brain. In this context, I will discuss some of our work investigating the  establishment of this vast network, with special emphasis on the generation of physical forces to establish the network. 
	
       Innate behaviours, like those related to hunger, sex, fear and aggression are typically processed by dedicated neuronal circuitry as they are under strong evolutionary selection. The outputs of these circuits are frequently stereotyped, though malleable to experience. In this context, I will discuss the second interest in our group; identifying the organization of relevant circuits and the mechanisms underlying experience-driven plasticity of innate behaviours.