Overview
Our lab is interested in the funtional organization of neuronal circuits in the brain. An understanding of the functional organization of the brain encompasses both the anatomical organization of neurons and networks of neurons as well as the dynamic characteristics of the connections (synapses) between these neurons.
We use a combination of electrophysiological techniques and optical imaging to study the chemical and electrical synapses between identified neurons, to characterize the electrophysiological and biophysical properties of neurotransmitter receptors and to study the dynamics of neurotransmitter release. Experimental work is currently performed using the mammalian retina as a model.
The retina is the most easily accessible part of the central nervous system and has a highly organized cellular structure with well-characterized synaptic connections. The somas of all cell types are readily accessible for electrophysiological recording in a slice or flat-mount preparation. The retina solves a multitude of computational tasks and provides the results to downstream brain areas. The fundamental challenge which is addressed in the lab is to understand these tasks, that occur on a rapid time-scale, at the molecular, biophysical and cellular level.
Collaborators:
Prof. Espen Hartveit
Prof. Hans-Hermann Gerdes
Researcher Manja Schubert
