Integrative Systems Neuroscience is a field at the intersection of multiple scientific domains, aiming to elucidate how interactions across various neural components give rise to complex brain functions and behaviors. Recent years have witnessed a substantial shift from reductionist frameworks towards integrative, systems-level models that account for multiscale processes, ranging from molecular and cellular mechanisms to entire neural circuits and behavioral outputs. Despite growing recognition of the critical importance of system-wide approaches, significant questions remain regarding how disparate neurobiological elements coalesce to drive emergent phenomena such as consciousness, cognitive flexibility, and pathological states. While landmark studies have highlighted the utility of computational models, high-throughput omic approaches, multi-modal imaging, and advanced bioengineering tools, ongoing debates persist about how best to combine these insights to enhance understanding and intervention.
A core challenge lies in synthesizing knowledge across scales and disciplines. Efforts to harmonize molecular, cellular, and circuit-level data with behavioral and clinical outcomes have generated a wealth of promising results, yet integrating these findings continues to demand cross-disciplinary collaboration, innovative modeling, and technology-driven methodologies. Important advances have been made through the adoption of big data frameworks, the development of integrative simulation platforms, and the application of theoretical constructs designed to unify neuroscience under systems-based paradigms. Nonetheless, key gaps remain regarding the mechanisms underpinning emergent neural properties, the translation of omics data to function, and the forward engineering of neural systems for applied purposes.
This Research Topic aims to gather comprehensive critical syntheses of the current literature, emerging trends, and future directions in the field of Integrative Systems Neuroscience. Our goal is to foster a deepened integration of findings, theories, and methodologies, ultimately illuminating how complex neural phenomena arise from the interplay of diverse biological and technological processes.
To gather further insights in the overarching domain of integrative systems neuroscience, we welcome reviews that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:
· Computational approaches to understanding multiscale neural interactions · Cross-disciplinary research synthesizing neurobiological findings · Data-driven analyses revealing mechanisms of emergent phenomena, including behavior and consciousness · Molecular, cellular, and circuit-level studies bridging scales · Bioengineering and technology-driven quantification of emergent neural processes · Development and application of novel modeling and simulation tools · Integration of multi-omic data and systems-level discoveries · Theoretical models explaining behavioral or neuropathological states
This Research Topic welcomes Review, Systematic Review, and Mini Review articles.
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