The goal of NeuroSign is to create a national Centre of Excellence for the study of Neurosignalling during nervous system function and dysfunction, through capacity development of the neuroscience potential of the Hellenic Pasteur Institute. Our group integrates the activities of 18 researchers in topical issues ranging from the study of neuromuscular and neuroimmune interactions to neurodevelopment, stem cell biology and the processes of neurodegeneration. Neuroimaging is a key component underlying these studies. Research programs aim at a) gaining basic understanding of the mechanisms involved in neuronal degeneration, protection and regeneration during the development of a number of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders, and b) using this knowledge to identify new targets and strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of such disorders. NeuroSign aims at further developing the Department to foster its integration in the European area of excellence in neuroscience research. The objectives of the Action Plan are: a) To establish collaborations with pioneer European research groups and to promote two-way secondments for the exchange of know-how in neurophysiology, neuroimaging at the whole animal level, protein crystallization, stem cell biology and transplantation in human disease models and analysis of neurological functional recovery; b) to recruit highly-qualified researchers with relevant experience to implement the new technologies; c) to acquire cutting-edge instrumentation which will allow advanced light microscopy and whole animal imaging, functional and structural protein studies, high-throughput electrophysiology and ligand-binding studies; d) to organize workshops and conferences to support exchange and dissemination of knowledge, and special events for the general public; e) to establish a professional management mechanism to meet the EC requirements.