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Imaging Functional Integration Of Newborn Neurons Into Neural Circuits Of The Axolotl Brain

Project description

Functional introduction of newborn neurons into existing brain neural circuits

New cells must integrate into the network of existing cells for embryonic growth and regeneration to take place. The EU-funded Imagine project aims to use the brain of the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) to study the dynamic remodelling of neural circuits when introducing newborn neurons in growth and regeneration stages. The researchers will employ a high-resolution intra-vital in vivo imaging approach to investigate the dynamics of neurogenesis and remodelling of neural circuits in post-embryonic growth and regeneration and develop a visualisation of the functional neuronal connections in the axolotl. Combining the imaging set-up with genetically encoded calcium indicators will result in the creation of activity maps of brain regions in the presence of defined stimuli.

Objective

Post embryonic growth and regeneration require new cells to integrate into the network of existing cells. In the case of the brain it is extremely important to maintain and restore circuit function, such that behaviors can be executed correctly. To study such processes a system that fulfills both post-embryonic growth as well as regeneration is needed. Furthermore, since neural circuit functions are highly dynamic the need for in vivo approaches is evident. In mammalian systems where neurogenesis occurs throughout life in restricted brain regions such approaches are technically challenging.
Here, I propose to use the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) brain to understand the dynamic remodeling of neural circuits through the addition of newborn neurons during post-embryonic growth and regeneration. I will establish a high resolution intra-vital in vivo imaging approach to address the dynamics of neurogenesis and remodeling of neural circuits in the telencephalon and the optic tectum. Using this setup in combination with genetically encoded calcium indicators I will generate activity maps of these regions in the presence or absence of defined stimuli and address their functional remodeling during growth and their restoration after injury. Furthermore, I will develop and adapt methods to visualize the functional connections of neurons in axolotl. Together, this work will provide fundamental insights into the functional maintenance and regeneration of neural circuits and the dynamics of how new neurons integrate in vivo which has not yet been achieved in any vertebrate system.

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

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MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF)

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2020

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Coordinator

FORSCHUNGSINSTITUT FUR MOLEKULARE PATHOLOGIE GESELLSCHAFT MBH
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 174 167,04
Address
CAMPUS-VIENNA-BIOCENTER 1
1030 Wien
Austria

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Region
Ostösterreich Wien Wien
Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 174 167,04
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