Annual Karger Workshop / Homology as a Tool in Neuroscience

This publication presents varied approaches to the concept of homology - a tool used for understanding how "similarities" and "differences" in neuronal circuits correlate with behaviours. A re-definition of homology in light of contemporary concepts and new techniques is followed by a discussion of the relatively old, but still controversial concept of head segmentation. The succeeding papers present models for determining the neural correlates of species-specific behavioural repertoires and for investigating how modifications of presumed homologous traits are necessary for adaptation to varying ecological niches. An examination of the use of contemporary molecular approaches to define homologous structures follows. Finally, it is proposed that neuronal connectivity, in addition to neuronal topography, be carefully examined in defining neuronal homologies.