POSTPONED: Feindel Brain and Mind Lecture Series: The other cortex: surface-based analyses of the hippocampus

***This lecture is postponed to a later date.

The Feindel Virtual Brain and Mind Seminar presents: The other cortex: surface-based analyses of the hippocampus

Jordan deKraker, Postdoctoral. research fellow, McGill University, Canada

Abstract: The hippocampus (or archicortex) has a complex folded laminar structure that can be fully appreciated in the multiplanar views afforded by 3D BigBrain and other ultra high-resolution datasets. Here, we look at how analysis of the hippocampus and hippocampal subfields can be performed using the same principles as surface-based analysis of the neocortex and neocortical parcels. That is, at high resolution the various folds or ‘digitations' within the hippocampus resemble neocortical gyrifications and by carefully fitting a surface to these folds, we open a new door to cortical mapping within the hippocampus. Results from this strategy are applied to 3D BigBrain, structural MRI, and resting state fMRI and can be summarized by two organizational axes: from anterior-posterior the hippocampus differs in connectivity but remains highly structurally consistent. In perpendicular, "proximal-distal" microstructure structure differs greatly between the classically described hippocampal subfields. The methods employed here are openly available as a fully automated BIDS software application and current work is exploring the use of this tool in epilepsy and other histology microstructural mapping endeavours.

Bio: I did my BSc in Neuroscience at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. I then did an MSc in Psychology at Western University in London, Ontario, followed by my PhD there as well in Neuroscience under the supervision of Dr. Stefan Kohler and Dr. Ali Khan. I'm now a postdoc at The Neuro, McGill University, working with Dr. Boris Bernhardt and Dr. Alan Evans on the topic of 3D hippocampal neuroanatomy, functional connectivity, and computational modelling. 

The Feindel Virtual Brain and Mind (VBM) Seminar Series will advance the vision of Dr. William Feindel (1918–2014), Former Director of the Neuro (1972–1984), to constantly bridge the clinical and research realms. The talks will highlight the latest advances and discoveries in neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience, and neuroimaging.

Speakers will include scientists from across The Neuro, as well as colleagues and collaborators locally and from around the world. The series is intended to provide a virtual forum for scientists and trainees to continue to foster interdisciplinary exchanges on the mechanisms, diagnosis and treatment of brain and cognitive disorders.

To watch via Vimeo, click here.