Abteilung Elektronenmikroskopie und molekulare Neuroanatomie

Neurons communicate with each other and with their environment by gap junctions or the release of neurotransmitters stored in synaptic vesicles. Neurons are highly polarized as are epithelial cells. This polarity is important for the vectorial aspects of their functions. Communication among neurons or likewise epithelial cells is sustained or modulated by the action of a great variety of ion channels including an increasing number of potassium channels of different electrophysiological properties. Subgroups of neurons integrate incoming signals. After computation they provide an elaborate output to determine or modulate the flow of information to higher centers of the brain resulting in conscious and self-determined human behavior.
Our research groups address the following scientific problems:
1. Development of neurons and contribution of synaptic vesicles to neuronal plasticity
2. Polarity and communication in healthy and neoplastic epithelial cells
3. Potassium channels and transmitter systems in identified neurons and neuronal networks
4. Characterization of brain nuclei and connections underlying emotional processes in health and neuropsychiatric disorders