From genes to circuit formation and function
We want to discover new molecular mechanisms underlying neural circuit development under physiological conditions. Further, we want to investigate how newly identified pathogenic gene mutations that cause neurodevelopmental phenotypes affect neural circuit formation and function and multi-sensory processing in animal models and humans.
Neural circuit formation relies on well-orchestrated molecular processes to generate neurons and connect them to functional networks. Neurons extend processes that establish precise synaptic connections with target cells. Newly formed networks are shaped by neural activity and sensory experience and establish appropriate, adaptive behavior. Comparing different circuits across several species allows us to identify fundamental molecular pathways and to better understand circuit formation. Further, analysis of patient cohorts with specific deficits, such as intellectual disability, will allow us to identify candidate gene mutations and investigate whether and how they affect neural function or circuit formation.
New projects
Neuronal projectomes in whole brain preparations and in mouse models of ASD
Research groups: Csaba Földy, Fritjof Helmchen
In this project we quantify neural connectivity in wild-type and ASD model mouse by combining and refining developed technologies (tissue expansion, mesoSPIM microscopy, data analysis) and probing functional rewiring in the ASD model.
More information following
Elucidating synaptic (dys)function in human 2D and 3D models of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Research groups: Martin Müller, Sebastian Jessberger, Susanne Walitza
We create 2D and 3D in vitro systems using iPSC-generated neurons from ASD patients to compare synaptic (dys)function between patient groups.
More information following
Macro-scale connectomic signatures and evnironmental factors associated with autistic traits in the developing human and mouse brain: a neuroimaging approach
Research groups: Andras Jakab, Theofanis Karayannis
We study associations between the prenatal human connectome and autistic traits and compare them with the connectome in ASD mouse models.
More information following
Running projects
Molecular Mechanisms of Cerebellar Circuit Formation - Contribution of Genes Associated with Joubert Syndrome
Research Groups: Ruxandra Bachmann-Gagescu, Esther Stoeckli
In this project, we are studying the contribution for circuit formation of genes associated with developmental delay.
EXPAND: Expanding the Dynamic Range of Light Microscopy-based Analysis of Physiological and Aberrant Neural Circuit Development
Research Groups: Martin Müller, Esther Stoeckli, Anita Rauch
We are improving technologies to study neural circuit architecture across spatial scales from the subsynaptic to the circuit level.
Brain circuit rewiring and its consequences on learning and memory
Research Groups: Csaba Földy, Sebastian Jessberger, Fritjof Helmchen, mesoSPIM Platform
We are studying how the capacity of neuronal wiring can be reactivated and controlled in adult neurons. This may be a prerequisite for an eventual cure of intellectual disabilities.
Using hippocampal organoids to study human brain development
Research Groups: Sebastian Jessberger, Csaba Földy, Fritjof Helmchen
In this project, we are developing hippocampal organoids.
Completed projects
Revealing the cortical distribution of human Cajal-Retzius cells in a joint MRI + mesoSPIM reference space
Research Groups: Theo Karayannis, Andras Jakab
In this project, we are analyzing the organization of a specific cell type during brain development using both the MRI and the mesoSPIM technologies.