Research Theme:
Research on neuronal circuit dynamics based on synaptic function and plasticity in the central nervous system

In our laboratory, we are conducting research to elucidate the basic principles of the mechanism by which the brain and nervous system work. Of particular interest is the function and plasticity of synapses that transmit information between neurons. The strength of synaptic transmission changes depending on the history of neuronal activity. It has been thought that the change of information processing by synaptic plasticity in a neuronal circuit enables an animal to form learning and memory according to the past experience. The goal of our study is to understand how synaptic plasticity occurs and how it alters the information processing in neural circuits to achieve adaptive changes in animal behavior. To this aim, using cultured neurons, brain slice preparations, and living individual mice, our laboratory takes the multi-disciplinary approach including molecular biology, cell biology, electrophysiology (both in vitro and in vivo), live-cell fluorescent imaging, morphology, animal behavior, and theoretical methods such as computer simulation of mathematical models. In particular, recently, we are developing new fluorescence imaging methods, and are taking on the challenge of controlling and capturing the spatiotemporal dynamics of individual neurons and their assembly.