Synaptic neurobiology
How neurons dynamically modulate their synaptic strength is one of the outstanding and most fascinating questions in modern neuroscience
Billions of neurons in the human brain are organised into highly interconnected neural circuits for efficient processing of sensory information.
Communication between nerve cells depends on transmission of chemical signals, which occurs at specialised structures called synapses.The ability of neurons to modulate the strength of their synaptic connections, known as synaptic plasticity, forms the cellular basis of learning and memory.
How neurons dynamically modulate their synaptic strength is one of the outstanding and most fascinating questions in modern neuroscience. To answer this question, our laboratory focusses on mechanisms that regulate neuronal trafficking (both pre- and post-synaptic membrane trafficking), as well as the epitranscriptomic (RNA modification) mechanisms underlying activity-dependent gene expression during synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. Ultimately, we aim to understand how dysregulation of these cellular processes contributes to neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
Group leader
Dr Victor Anggono
Group Leader, Synaptic Neurobiology
Senior Research Fellow
+61 7 3346 6325
+61 7 3346 6417
v.anggono@uq.edu.au
UQ Researcher Profile
- 2 February 2017
Our approach
Our research combines biochemical, molecular and cellular biology in both cell culture (primary neurons and cell lines) and mouse models. We utilise gene editing technology, cutting-edge microscopy, proteomics, next-generation sequencing and behavioural analyses in our study. We are particularly interested in understanding the complex neuronal signalling cascades through protein-protein interactions and post-translational modifications of key synaptic molecules.
Aims to achieve
Neurons are inherently plastic and have the ability to modify their synaptic strength and connectivity, as well as adjusting their intrinsic excitability. Our lab is interested in understanding the underlying mechanisms from the regulation of neuronal trafficking to the control of activity-dependent gene expression.
Research areas
- Neuronal trafficking
- Neuroepigenetics
- Neurodegenerative diseases
Our Team
Alumni
- Dr Se Eun (Joanne) Jang – PhD student (2019)
- Dr Sumasri Guntupalli – PhD student (2020)
Research excellence
What's new
- Two QBI neuroscientists have received prestigious awards to support their research.
- QBI researchers will receive more than $2 million in Australian Research Council funding.
- QBI scientists have received $9.57 million in grants to fund pioneering neuroscience research.
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