(20/08/2025)
Organized By : Departments - Department of Zoology(r)
Activity Location : Mellano Hall
Report on the One-Day Seminar “Rewriting the Brain: Brain Plasticity and the Art of Learning” Organized by: Department of Zoology, St. Albert’s College (Autonomous) in Association with Indian Women Scientists’ Association Date: 20th August 2025 Venue: Mellano Hall The Department of Zoology, St. Albert’s College (Autonomous), organized a one-day seminar on the theme “Rewriting the Brain: Brain Plasticity and the Art of Learning” on 20th August 2025 at Mellano Hall. The program was graced by distinguished dignitaries, faculty members, and students. The seminar began with a prayer by Ms. Avanthika Anilkumar and Ms. Amruthavarshini (II B.Sc. Zoology), followed by the welcome address delivered by Dr. Retina I. Cleetus, Vice Principal and Coordinator. Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Antony Thoppil, Chairman and Manager, then delivered the presidential address, Principal Prof. (Dr.) Joseph Justin Rebello offered his remarks. Dr. Susan Eapen, Retired Scientist at BARC, introduced the theme and the resource person, setting the tone for the day’s proceedings. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Baby Chakrapani, Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, CUSAT, who presented a thought-provoking lecture on the intricate mechanisms of brain plasticity and its role in learning and adaptation. His session brought together insights from neuroscience, physiology, and lifestyle sciences, providing a holistic view of how the human brain evolves with experience. Dr. Chakrapani began by explaining the concept of neural connections and neural communication, stressing that the brain’s immense processing power arises from the vast network of interconnected neurons. He described how electrical impulses travel across neurons and are mediated by neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine, which regulate functions ranging from memory and mood to motor control. This foundation helped the audience appreciate how even small changes at the cellular level can produce significant shifts in cognition and behaviour. The talk then progressed to the neural network model, where Dr. Chakrapani illustrated how the brain operates as an integrated system. He emphasized that neural pathways are not rigidly fixed but instead exhibit remarkable adaptability. This adaptability, termed neuroplasticity, is the key to learning new skills, recovering from injuries, and adapting to new environments. Further, he elaborated on the role of hormones in modulating brain activity. Hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and oxytocin, he explained, influence memory formation, stress responses, and emotional regulation. Their interaction with neurotransmitters shapes how individuals perceive and respond to experiences, thereby impacting learning efficiency and resilience. A significant portion of the lecture was dedicated to structural plasticity—the brain’s ability to physically reorganize its architecture by forming new synapses and pruning unused ones—and metaplasticity, the higher-order plasticity that regulates how synapses change over time. By giving examples from research and real-life learning contexts, Dr. Chakrapani illustrated how these processes ensure that the brain remains flexible and adaptive throughout life. He then highlighted the strong connection between sleep and stress in brain health. Sleep, he explained, plays a crucial role in memory consolidation, removal of neural waste products, and strengthening of synaptic connections. Conversely, chronic stress disrupts neurotransmitter balance and hormone regulation, impairing neuroplasticity and cognitive functions. Towards the end, Dr. Chakrapani drew attention to the influence of nutrition, exercise, and the gut biome on brain plasticity. He emphasized that a nutrient-rich diet supports neurotransmitter synthesis, regular physical activity enhances blood flow and stimulates the release of growth factors like BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), and the gut microbiome plays a surprisingly powerful role in regulating mood, cognition, and stress resilience. Concluding his address, he reminded the audience that neuroplasticity is not confined to childhood or early learning stages—it is a lifelong process. With the right balance of lifestyle, mental stimulation, and emotional well-being, individuals can continue to “rewrite” their brains and improve their cognitive and emotional capacities. The audience responded enthusiastically, with many students expressing interest in how these scientific insights could be applied to their own studies and personal growth. The talk was highly interactive, with students showing keen interest in understanding how neuroscience links with learning, behaviour, and overall wellbeing. The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Celin Nimisha Vijayan, Assistant Professor, expressing gratitude to the speaker, dignitaries, and participants. Overall, the session provided a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of how the brain rewires itself, offering both scientific depth and practical relevance for students. View Poster View Brochure