Our brain consists of trillions of neurons, each making thousands of connections with other neurons: synapses. Each of these synapses requires hundreds of proteins that allow neurons to communicate with each other. This communication between neurons allows us to walk, talk, think, and form memories. "Thanks to many years of research, we now know which proteins are present in these synapses, but it remains a great mystery how neurons manage to bring these hundreds of proteins together in the right place and at the right time to form all these synapses. This research aims to understand how neurons achieve this by studying mRNA and local protein production in synapses. It's essential that we understand this well because we know it goes wrong in neurological diseases," Koppers explains.
Process disruption leads to neurological disorders
When this process is disrupted, neurological disorders can develop. By investigating how neurons locally regulate mRNA and proteins, the researchers hope to gain fundamental insights that can form the basis for new therapies. Moreover, the novel techniques developed during this project can also be used to answer other scientific questions.
New methods map mRNA and protein production during synapse formation
New innovative molecular techniques and advanced microscopy are being used to study mRNA and local protein production in synapses. This will investigate where and when proteins are produced in neurons and how this influences synapse formation. In addition, a new method is being developed to control these processes in neurons which would allow them to guide synapse formation.
NWO Talent Programme
The NWO Talent Programme gives researchers the freedom to conduct their own research based on creativity and passion and stimulates innovation and curiosity. The researchers will receive a maximum of 850,000 euros.