Our research is to understand how neurons integrated into functional circuits. In particular, we focus on synaptic activity that supports information delivery and storage in the brain. We utilize a combination of genetic, biochemical, and electrophysiological techniques to explore synaptic modulation.
At the molecular level, we are highly interested in the protein machinery that controls exocytosis and endocytosis of synaptic vesicles. We employ time-resolved assays to study molecular action in vitro, and electrophysiological methods to monitor neuronal activity in vivo. We explore structural principles that enable proteins to shape intracellular membranes at synapses. We anticipate that the molecular understanding of synaptic machinery will lead to novel strategies for tuning the strength of neuronal communication and brain activity.
