Synaptic Transmission Research Group

The Synaptic Transmission Research Group consists of 8-10 principal investigators primarily in the Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology and the Department of Pharmacology. Researchers in this group investigate how neurons form and maintain synaptic connections, how information is transmitted across synapses, how synaptic plasticity contributes to learning and memory, and how glial cells regulate synapse function, among other topics. Research in this group employs a range of experimental approaches including, electrophysiology, optogenetics, two-photon calcium imaging, immunohistochemistry, and genetics and spans the nervous system from neocortex to peripheral nerves. Principal investigators, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students participate in frequent joint lab meetings and monthly “Synapse Club” meetings, where trainees present ongoing work to the group.