Spatial constrains for regulation of synaptic neurotransmitter release in the central nervous system axons

Kirill Volynski (primary)
Institute of Neurology
University College London
Pavel Novak (secondary)
School of Engineering and Material Sciences
Queen Mary, University of London

Abstract

Synaptic release of neurotransmitters forms the basis of information transfer in the brain. Transmitter release is dynamically regulated by intracellular signalling cascades, which can be triggered in individual presynaptic boutons by extracellular ligands. How activation of signalling in one bouton affects its neighbouring boutons remains however poorly understood. This project aims to address this key question using a combination of electrophysiology, fluorescence microscopy, super-resolution scanning ion conductance microscopy and nanoscale-targeted substance application. This will provide novel important insights into understanding the mechanisms of target-specific signalling in the brain, because neighbouring boutons normally signal to different post-synaptic target cells.


References

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BBSRC Area
Molecules, cells and industrial biotechnology
Area of Biology
Cell BiologyNeurobiology
Techniques & Approaches
BiochemistryBiophysicsEngineeringImage ProcessingMathematics / StatisticsMicroscopy / ElectrophysiologySimulation / Modelling