Professor Marina Mikhaylova
Primary Investigator, Optobiology Lab
Humboldt University of Berlin
Germany
Illuminating the cell biology of the neuron
Abstract: Neurons are highly polarized cells with extraordinary morphology and depend on tightly controlled developmental programs, where cytoskeletal organization and coordinated intracellular transport are central to their development, maintenance, and plasticity. In this talk, I will present an overview of two directions in our lab that combine primary neuronal cultures with advanced fluorescence microscopy and correlative cryo–electron tomography (cryo-ET) to study the spatiotemporal organization of mammalian neurons. The first part focuses on the development of axon-carrying dendrite (AcD) neurons, in which the axon originates from a dendrite rather than directly from the soma. These neurons are thought to play an important role in memory consolidation, yet little is known about their cell biology. Using dissociated hippocampal cultures, we show that AcD morphology can arise before synaptogenesis and independently of the in vivo environment. Although the axon initial segment (AIS) in AcD neurons preserves the characteristic cytoskeletal organization and trafficking barrier of soma-derived AISs, it differs in plasticity and inhibitory innervation. Ongoing cryo-ET studies aim to resolve the native nanoscale architecture of the AIS. In the second part, I will discuss mechanisms of organelle trafficking and positioning in neurons with the focus on axonal transport and localization of secretory trafficking organelles which are important for synaptic remodeling.
About Neuroscience Seminars
Neuroscience seminars at the QBI play a major role in the advancement of neuroscience in the Asia-Pacific region. The primary goal of these seminars is to promote excellence in neuroscience through the exchange of ideas, establishing new collaborations and augmenting partnerships already in place.
Seminars in the QBI Auditorium on Level 7 are held on Wednesdays at 12-1pm, which are sometimes simulcast on Zoom (with approval from the speaker). We also occassionally hold seminars from international speakers via Zoom. The days and times of these seminars will vary depending on the time zone of the speaker. Please see each seminar listed below for details.
