On January 22, 2025, Prof. ZHUO Min, an esteemed Visiting Professor at CityUHK, delivered an engaging lecture titled "Synaptic Basis of Brain Network: Chronic Pain and Anxiety", captivating a diverse audience eager to explore the neural intricacies underlying chronic pain and anxiety disorders.

During his talk, Prof. ZHUO Min delved into the activation of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and insular cortex (IC) in pain conditions, drawing from rodent studies to illustrate how ACC/IC activation contributes to chronic pain states. He elaborated on various forms of synaptic plasticity, including long-term potentiation (LTP) triggered by NMDA and kainate receptors, shedding light on the affective component of pain states and pain-related anxiety. Prof. ZHUO Min also discussed recent translational advancements in the treatment of chronic pain and anxiety, offering valuable insights into potential therapeutic approaches.

Simultaneously, we had the pleasure of hosting Prof. CHEN Xi, an Assistant Professor at BMS & NS, CityUHK, who shed light on "A Higher-Order Cortical Circuit Underlying Innate Defensive Behavior Modulation". Prof. CHEN Xi's presentation provided a deep dive into the mechanisms governing behavioral responses within the brain, with a particular emphasis on the modulation of innate defensive behaviors. His insights illuminated critical aspects of defensive behavior modulation, enriching our understanding of neural circuitry involved in shaping behavioral responses.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Prof. ZHUO Min and Prof. CHEN Xi for their invaluable contributions to our workshop on Treating Central Nervous System Diseases by Targeting Plasticity and Specific Circuits, enriching our knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of these complex neural processes.