Keeping in view the latest advances in the field of neurosciences, the DRDO has convened an International Symposium on “Recent Trends in Neurosciences” on here Sunday the October 30.The event will be inaugurated by eminent DRDO Chief Controller for R&D in Life Sciences and International Cooperation Dr W Selvamurthy.

The three-day conference will discuss on topics like neurodegeration and neuroprotection; herbal and antioxidant therapies for neuroprotection; neurobiology of aging and memory; natural solutions to brain dysfunctions and many other relevant subjects. .

Understanding the biochemical and biophysical properties of nerve cells have led to fundamental insights into an important aspect of cognition and memory. However, with every new discovery on the brain we realize how little we know about this pulsating mass of neurons, thus leaving an unending scope for future research. In this context, conference will surely provide a unique platform for the neuroscientists in India and abroad to deliberate, discuss and collaborate in areas of mutual research interests.

Neurophysiological changes under stressful environmental conditions have been one of the thrust areas of the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), as the troops in India are exposed to variety of extreme environmental situations.The lab has been working to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in modulation of neurotransmitters under stressful environment with special reference to behavior and sleep deprivation. As countermeasures, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions are being explored to improve the cognitive functioning of soldiers deputed at high altitudes and pilots on long haul flights. Improving sleep quality at high altitudes is another challenging area. Thus, the conference will also highlight the achievements and initiatives taken by DRDO in this area.

Many eminent personalities in the field such as Emeritus Professor Neurology, CSMMU, Lucknow Dr Devika Nag, Director, NBRC, Dr Subrata Sinha, Director, DIPR; Dr Manas Mandal, AIIMS-Delhi Prof Raj Mehra, NIMHANS-Bangalore Prof Dr TR Raju, and over 25 foreign delegates from countries like Australia, Japan, The Netherlands, Singapore and US.

A unique feature of this conference will be a special interactive session for school students. In this session, students of 10+2 level from Delhi schools will come face to face with eminent neuroscientists and will get an exposure to the mysteries of brain and its functioning. The session is aimed to ignite the young minds creating interest in the field and encourage them to pursue career in neurobiology. Director, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), Dr Shashi Bala will be the organizing this event.