Synaptic transmission: from mechanisms of transmitter release to synapse specificity
Event details
| Date | 22.09.2011 |
| Hour | 12:15 |
| Speaker | Dr Ralf Schneggenburger |
| Location | |
| Category | Conferences - Seminars |
Synaptic transmission is the basis for information flow in neuronal circuits, and is initiated by vesicle fusion and transmitter release at the presynaptic active zone. Dysfunction of synapses and synaptic circuits is also often an underlying cause for neuropsychiatric - and neurodegenerative disorders. Our lab investigates fundamental synaptic signaling mechanisms using an experimentally accessible synapse in the auditory system, the calyx of Held. In recent years, we have established and successfully used in-vivo protein overexpression and Cre-lox mediated conditional gene removal at the calyx of Held. These approaches have revealed new roles for the Ca2+ sensor protein Synaptotagmin-2 (1), and for the active zone protein RIM in the control of transmitter release at the active zone (2). Beyond signaling at individual active zones, synaptic strength will depend on the number of active zones contained in a synaptic connection, and therefore, on synapse size. Recent evidence from our lab identifies a role for bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling in determining synapse size and synaptic connectivity patterns during the development of auditory circuits. These studies enhance our understanding of the molecular physiology of transmitter release in the brain, and of signaling mechanisms that help establishing specific synaptic connectivity in neuronal circuits.
Practical information
- General public
- Free
Contact
- M. Mary