Molecular and Cellular NeuroscienceProf. Dr. Daniela Mauceri
Molecular and transcriptional control of neuronal morphology in health and disease
Neuronal cells depend on to their distinctive shape to function. Neuronal performance is affected by morphological alterations, which are associated with many cognitive diseases. Although the mechanisms governing neuronal architecture have become better understood, their translational potential is still unexplored. We investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control neural shape and function. This fundamental aspect of our research is followed by an exploration of the results' translational implications in diseases of the nervous system. As such, structural anomalies may not cause the disease, but preventing or correcting them could be beneficial.
Research Foci
Maintenance of dendritic architecture
The balance between structural flexibility and the stability of the existing connections results in optimal neuronal function. Most dendritic structures need to remain stable for the duration of a neuron's lifetime. We are investigating the complex molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in structure maintenance.
Role of the lipids in the plasma membrane in neurons
Although there has been much research on neural structural plasticity, little is known about how the lipid content of the plasma membrane changes to accommodate input-induced morphological changes or can affect plasticity. The relationship between synaptic activity, plasticity, and plasma membrane composition is the main focus of line of research.
Epigenetic factors and their target genes in physiology and pathology
Synaptic activity regulates several epigenetic regulators which are important in signal-regulated transcription. This line of research studies epigenetic regulators and their target genes in physiological and maladaptive plasticity.
Main Methodology
The group uses a multidisciplinary approach relying on different techniques including, among others, rodent models of disorders of the nervous system (i.e. chronic pain; seizures; retina degeneration), morphometrics, time lapse imaging, in vivo delivery of recombinant viral vectors and proteins to CNS areas, primary neuronal cultures, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
