Research in Chung-Chuan Lo's Lab
Our lab focuses on studying neuroinformatics and collective behavior of neural systems using computer modeling. Our approach is unique in two aspects: (1) we simulate large scale networks using biologically realistic spiking neuron models with detailed synaptic dynamics and membrane properties, and (2) we analyze data using novel statistical tools specifically designed for neural systems. Furthermore, our research emphasizes close collaborations with experimentalists.
We have two main research focuses:
(1) Neural circuit mechanisms of flexible brain functions.
In everyday life, we often need to evaluate sensory information in order to make a decision, to suppress an ongoing action or to resolve conflicts between automatic and voluntary responses. To integrate our understanding of the flexible brain functions in different disciplines at different levels, we build large-scale neural network models that connect neural activity at microscopic levels with behavioral observations at macroscopic levels.
We currently focus on the following brain functions:
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Adaptive behavior in perceptual decision
How do we find the best strategy when making decisions and how do we change our strategy in response to a changing environment? To address the questions, we study the neuronal mechanisms of speed-accuracy tradeoff in perceptual decision. In one project, we study how a top-down input with balanced excitation and inhibition to a decision neural circuit can rapidly shift the system between the strategies that emphasize fast or accuracy. 
Energy Landscape Vb=-52.5
Performance
In another project, we build a doapmine-modulated synaptic plasticity system in a large scale neural networks and study what neuronal parameters are critical to the adaptation to environmental change during a decision process.
Decision Optimization
DA dependent STDP affects the Cxe-CD synaptic efficiency. -
Neuronal plasticity in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
TMS use a coil to produce eddy current which is able to stimulate the central nervous pathways. With the advantage as a non-invasive method, TMS is widely used in various fields from probing brain functions to the therapies of neurological disorders. Using different patterns of stimulation, TMS can facilitate or depress neural signal transmisison. However, the underlying neuronal mechanism is still unclear.
To address the issues, we designed a model of cortico-basal ganglia circuit to simulate the response of TMS in the brain. We also propose a integrated model of synaptic plasticity which can reproduce the plastic response to TMS of different stimulation patterns.
Motor Cortex Neuron Network Model
Simulation Result of Motor Cortex Network Respond to Single TMS Pulse
(2) Neuroinformatics
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Signal propagation in neural networks
Neural networks are characterized by their ability of processing large amount of input in parallel. Typical analyses of the network architecture focus on the cluster coefficient (local communication) and shortest path length (long-range signal propagation). The approach treats every nodes (neurons) equally and do not consider any particular direction of functional information flow in the networks. However, the approach may not fully characterize the architecture of neural networks as they are distinct from other types of networks in at least two ways:
In this project, we propose a novel analysis which characterizes information flows in a neural network. Specifically, we measures two quantities: 1) processing speed: how quickly all vertical information pathways are established between input and output nodes and 2) information sharing: how far information entering a given input node travels horizontally to different output nodes. Comparing to the small-world netowrks and random networks, we found that neural networks are characterized by the fast processing speed and broad information sharing.1) A neural network has a specific direction of information flow: signals enter the network from a specific set of input neurons, processed by local neurons and leave the network from output neurons. 2) The neural pathways via multiple synaptic connections may be functionally more important than the direct synaptic connections (shortest pathways). 
- Olfactory local circuit in Drosophila
From an evolutionary perspective, the olfaction is probably the oldest sensory system. However, it is still the least understood in many ways compared to other sensory modalities such as vision and audition. Nevertheless, there has been growing interest in the ultrasensitive detection of airborne molecules. 
In the project we examine the data of neural circuits in fly antennal lobe provided by Dr. Ann-Shyn Chiang's team. We found the neural circuits are characterized by several complex patterns that cannot be explained by current theories and models of olfactory processing. We are building a neural circuit model based on the data with an aim to understand the functions of the complex circuits in the antennal lobe of Drosophila.
