simulated time series of the cumulative post-synaptic contributions of each of 36 model neurons

CNS Impact Report

FY 2023 Impact Report

Deb Neff, in lab coat, flanked by Chancellor Gary S. May, left; and Dean Mark Winey and professor Kimberley McAllister.
 
SELECT RESEARCH DISCOVERIES
  • A novel theory explaining how grid cells can prevent interference between similar memories in episodic memory, and how their dysfunction leads to memory problems in early Alzheimer’s disease
     
  • An innovative approach to track neurons in specific brain regions stimulated by psychedelics using novel sensors that enable rapid and non-invasive tagging of activated neural circuits
     
  • The first biomarkers in the gut microbiome that predict risk and protection from opioid use disorder in mice
     
  • New insight into conditions like PTSD through identifying brain regions that control our alertness and fear reactions
Grant expenditures chart
Photos of CNS trainees
 
TRAINING EXCELLENCE & COMMUNITY OUTREACH
  • Resumed the in-person offering of the Neuroscience Initiative to Enhance Diversity (NIED) event, hosting 25 undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds to UC Davis for a two-day program focused on workshops and seminars on preparing and applying to graduate school in neuroscience
  • Hosted NeuroFest 2023: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and the Science of Brain Health. More than 300 community members of all ages enjoyed stimulating talks by UC Davis neuroscientists, NeuroArt Contest, NeuroActivities interactive booths and NeuroPoster presentations by trainees
  • Renewed the UC Davis NIH T32 “Vision Science Training: Cornea to Cortex” grant, which will support 4 predocs annually for 5 years

 

A group photo of about 50 NeuroFest volunteers
 
PHILANTHROPY HIGHLIGHTS
  • Deborah Neff ’76 established the Janet A. Neff Innovation and Research Endowment with a $3 million estate gift, supporting memory and plasticity research in honor of her sister Janet, diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease
     
  • The Center for Neuroscience celebrated its 30th anniversary and announced the naming of its main building, the Robert D. Grey Hall, in honor of the visionary leadership and service of Provost Emeritus Robert D. Grey, founder of the CNS. The Greys also contributed a $1 million estate gift for ongoing Center support
     
  • Binda Mangat, Quorum Technologies, Inc. Founder, President and CEO, helped launch the Mental Health Research Innovation Fund, supporting research on the root causes of mental health conditions to accelerate the identification of new targets and treatments for promoting mental wellness