Our group conducts experimental neuroscience studies to understand the brain networks and information processing based on nonlinear dynamics from experimental data. We try to understand the relationship between brain functions (e.g. motor control, perception, cognition, and social functions) and neural dynamics (e.g. synchronous oscillations and noise-induced dynamics).

1. Manipulative approaches to neural dynamics

Using noninvasive brain stimulation techniques (transcranial magnetic stimulation: TMS and transcranial electrical stimulation: tES) and concurrent EEG recording (e.g., TMS-EEG or TMS-tDCS), we reveal the causal relationship between network dynamics, information processing, and cognitive/motor behaviors.

Reference:
Yuka O. Okazaki, Yuji Mizuno, Keiichi Kitajo, Probing dynamical cortical gating of attention with concurrent TMS-EEG. Scientific Reports, 10, 4959, 1-10, doi:10.1038/s41598-020-61590-2, 2020.

2. EEG hyperscanning

To elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying social interactions, we analyze brain activity simultaneously recorded from multiple people using an EEG hyperscanning approach.

Reference:
Masahiro Kawasaki, Keiichi Kitajo, Yoko Yamaguchi, Sensory-motor synchronization in the brain corresponds to behavioral synchronization between individuals. Neuropsychologia, 119, 59-67, doi:10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2018.07.026, 2018.

3. Systems neuroscience beyond the boundaries of hierarchal brain architectures

Our group is interested in the relationship between neural transmitters, network dynamics, and human behavior. We utilize non-invasive methods such as magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to target this theme.

4. Global network dynamics including brain and body

Using the simultaneous recording of EEG and biological signals (e.g., electrocardiogram, electrogastrogram), we investigate brain-body network dynamics.