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Content archived on 2024-05-14

Functional and molecular differences between hippocampal synapses studied at the single synapse level

Objective



Research objectives and content
Synaptic transmission in the mammalian central nervous system has been analysed traditionally via electrophysiological recordings obtained from the neuronal cell body. Using this methodology, the funtional diversity of individual synapses cannot be sufficiently described. Here, different methods suited to monitor events at the single synapse level will be applied to rat hippocampal neurons.Loose patch recordings of spontaneous miniature postsynaptic currents, so far succesfully employed for the analysis of individual excitatory synapses, will be extended to inhibitory synapses. Therby, precise informations concerning principal parameters of these synapses can be obtained; as, for example, the extent of receptor saturation by a quantum of neurotransmitter.While loose patch recordings mainly focus on the postsynaptic site, also presynaptic events will be monitored at single synapse resolution. The distribution of the synaptic vesicle protein synaptotagmin and potentially of other presynaptic proteins before and after the induction of different forms of synaptic plasticity will be followed in real time with various fluorescent labelling methods. These experiments may reveal plasticity-related changes in the protein composition of individual synapses.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
Training will be devoted to new and powerful electrophysiological and imaging techniques developed by the host laboratory. Adding to already present experience in the characterization of synaptic proteins, learning those methods and discussing state-of-the-art concepts of synaptic transmission will significantly strengthen personal expertise. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
The host laboratory of Dr. Malgaroli has a long-standing collaboration with Glaxo Geneva.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

Data not available

Funding Scheme

RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)

Coordinator

FONDAZIONE CENTRO SAN RAFFAELE DEL MONTE TABOR - ISTITUTO DI RICOVERO E CURA A CARATTERE SCIENTIFICO
EU contribution
No data
Address
Via Olgettina 58
20132 MILANO
Italy
Total cost
No data