Project: From molecules to networks: Understanding the physiology and patophysiology in the brain through mouse models.

VI Framework Programme of the European Union. Integrated Project

Coordinator: Reinhard Jahn and Joachim Bormann (Max Planck Institute, Goettingen, Germany)

The involvement of synapses in many neurological diseases – “synaptopathies” – is becoming increasingly apparent in recent years. Yet, despite considerable advances in our understanding of the processes of synaptic transmission and plasticity, much remains to be delineated with respect to the molecular details of the individual steps in these processes. Our aim is to further our understanding of synaptic function using a multi-systems approach, from in vitro cell free systems to in vivo models, taking full advantage of genetic mouse models, particularly those serving as models for synaptic dysfunction in neurological disease. Innovative and state of the art technologies will be applied and further developed, including biochemical, molecular, electrophysiological, and optical tools. We will derive detailed knowledge of molecular machineries that drive synaptic transmission and of mechanisms responsible for various forms of synaptic plasticity. We expect that these studies will provide invaluable insights into synaptic function and dysfunction and their contribution to complex brain functions in health and disease.

Página WEB de EUSynapse