Introduction
The center consists of three main research groups: (1) Brain, Consciousness and Cognition Group, (2) Cognition and Biological Basis Group, and (3) Neuro-modulation and Imaging Group. Collectively, the three groups strive to explore consciousness from both cognitive (software) and neural (hardware) perspectives, and then apply these research findings to clinical applications.
The center places “consciousness” at the core of its neuroscience research, aiming to significantly enhance the treatment outcomes for patients with disorders of consciousness through its research achievements. Various neurodegenerative and brain diseases can lead to severe disorders of consciousness, and the center focuses on studying how these diseases affect the molecular mechanisms and neural circuits that underlie consciousness. By understanding the differences between these diseases, the center seeks to develop diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cognitive consciousness changes (such as perception, attention, thinking, sleep) and psychiatric consciousness changes (such as emotions, feelings, psychological states, confusion) caused by different brain diseases. Additionally, the center employs advanced neuroimaging techniques and adaptive interventions to propose innovative approaches in precision medicine for disorders of consciousness, aiming to tailor feasible treatment models for consciousness changes induced by different brain diseases, thereby improving patient outcomes.
