Development of innovative photo-activated molecules to induce de novo synaptic plasticity in vitro and in vivo

Synaptic plasticity is fundamental for various adaptive brain functions, and distinct molecular mechanisms via intercellular signaling cascades have been postulated for multiple forms of plasticity. Our goal is to develop innovative tools which enable us to manipulate distinct forms of synaptic plasticity in a temporally regulated manner, and with synaptic tags to control the subcellular localization. These techniques will provide us the basis for a better understanding of how the brain works in plastic manners and how the dysregulation of plasticity leading to mental disorders.