Ass.Prof. Sarah Melzer
Medical University of Vienna
Center for Brain Research
Department of Neuronal Cell Biology
Website Melzer-Lab
Programm
"Pre- and postsynaptic modulation of cortical circuits by neuropeptides"
Cortical functions such as learning, memory and perception, are commonly attributed to the fast communication within synaptic circuits. However, several major cell types in the cortex are classified by their strong expression of neuropeptides and all major cortical cell types express neuropeptide receptors. How cortical neuropeptides modify signaling intracellularly and how they affect synaptic transmission in cortical circuits is still largely unknown.
We use electrophysiological recordings and new tools for fluorescent imaging of intracellular pathways to identify how neuropeptides modulate neuronal circuits and cortical output in vitro and in vivo. By combining in vivo imaging and genetic tools with behavioral tasks, we aim to decipher the functional implications of identified neuropeptidergic mechanisms on learning and memory. In my talk, I will give insights into the functions and effects of several cortical neuropeptides and outline future directions of our research.
Host: Christian GRUBER
Contact for questions: Helmut KUBISTA