Molecular mechanisms of synaptic development
and function
The mammalian brain. composed of 1011
nerve cells with 1014 precise synaptic interconnections. is
an organ of unparalleled complexity. A major challenge in modern
neuroscience is to elucidate the mechanisms by which nascent neurons
form and maintain this elaborate cellular network. thereby providing
critical insights into neural circuit formation during development and
repair following injury. A key initial step in the establishment of
neuronal network is the outgrowth of neurites. a complex process that requires coordinated cytoskeleton remodeling and
vesicle targeting to designated plasma membrane domains. The research
goal of our lab is to use a multi-disciplinary approach to define the
biochemical events underlying neurite
outgrowth. We have identified two protein complexes. the
exocyst (rsec6/8) complex and the
sep2/4/6/7/8 family. required for promoting and regulating
neurite outgrowth. Currently. we are using
molecular biological. biochemical. immunochemical. electrophysiological
and cell biological techniques to investigate the molecular mechanisms
of these two complexes in regulating neurite
development. axon/dendritic differentiation
and synapse formation. In addition. we are using these two complexes as
molecular handles to identify and isolate other protein players in the
neurite outgrowth process. Elucidation of
the molecular events underlying neurite
outgrowth should provide important insights into the regulation of
neuronal growth. differentiation and regeneration.
 |
 |
|
