Dynamics of cell migration and neuronal circuit formation
Brain Development, Glial cells, Interneurons
Research aim
We aim at characterizing the molecular regulation involved in brain development. We are particularly interested in the process of neuronal migration. This process is dysregulated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
About us
During brain development neurons and glial cells are generated in specific microenvironments before performing extensive migration towards their final destination. Migration is essential for neuronal circuit formation. Interneurons are essential elements of neuronal circuits and its dysregulation is often associated with the onset of developmental disorders.
We know aim at understanding the long-term consequences of disrupting cellular crosstalk during interneuron migration and we aim at exploring how the trajectory that interneurons take primes their connectivity in circuits. We are also interested in analyzing interneuron migration in models of developmental disorders.
We expect uncovering fundamental processes that are essential for neuronal circuit organization and identfying molecular pathways to be tackled in neurodevelopmental disorders.
To tackle these chalenging questions we use murine and in vitro human models mimicking devloping brains. We are currently establishing a collaboration to obtain fetal human tissue to study brain development in a human context.
We also interact with clinicians to help us focusing our studies in aspects that are relevant for human health.