Genetic dissection of cerebral cortex development using mosaic analysis with double markers (MADM)
Event details
| Date | 14.03.2011 |
| Hour | 17:00 |
| Speaker | Dr Simon Hippenmeyer, Stanford University |
| Location |
SV2510
|
| Category | Conferences - Seminars |
The cerebral cortex, seat of our cognitive abilities, is composed of an intricate network of interconnected neurons belonging to a variety of different classes. The cortical cytoarchitecture consists of distinct layers with different cellular composition and function. However, it is currently not known how many classes and subtypes of cortical neurons exist at all wiring up the cortical circuits. The precise mechanisms how these neurons coalesce into defined laminae during development are not completely understood either. In a pursuit to obtain in-depth insights into these issues I study corticogenesis at unprecedented single cell resolution using the genetic strategy called MADM (Mosaic Analysis with Double Markers). MADM technology offers an unparalleled approach to visualize and concomitantly manipulate sparse clones or subsets of genetically defined neurons in mice. My current and future research program exploits the unique features of MADM in order to address 1) the principles generating cortical cell type diversity; 2) the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling cortical projection neuron migration; 3) development of cortical afferent and efferent axonal projections; and 4) the role of genomic imprinting in cortex development. Together, these studies aim to contribute to our understanding of the fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the essential neurodevelopmental processes that control cortex assembly. In a broader context the knowledge obtained from the experimental strategies outlined likely also provides novel critical insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathology of the diseased brain with particular focus on neurodevelopmental disorders.
Practical information
- General public
- Free