Neuroscience team
Research outline
Functions of brain such as decision making and memory depend on the network structure of the nerve. The neurons have two types of projections: dendrites necessary for signal input and axons necessary for output. They exchange signals between through connections, called synapses.
Because the brain processes the information by repeating distribution and integration, most axons generate branches and send signals to multiple targets. Similarly, dendrites receive signals from different neurons.
These structures are different not only among species, but also among the persons and determines our individuality. Determination of such structure is regulated gene functions, but is genes not directly determine detailed circuit structures.
We have about 30,000 genes in our genome, whereas the number of neurons is more than 100 billion and the number of synapses is more than 100 trillion. The neuronal circuit is constructed autonomously in the process of development from one fertilized egg. After the birth, it is maintained through the lifespan while changing in response to environmental signals.
Functions of each neurons are controlled by intracellular systems and extracellular signals, in which various molecules are involved. In addition, neurons interact with each other to form higher-order structures such as neural circuits and brain tissue structures. Although brain research is progressing rapidly, there are many unclear points about the basic principles of how the structure and function of individual neurons are regulated.
We aim to understand the systems regulating the structure and function of neurons at molecular and cellular level. We expect that such bottom-up approaches lead to an understanding of the entire brain.
Research project
Systems that control neuronal morphology
Neural networks are autonomously created in dynamic and flexible processes during development. In the adult brain, structure axons and dendrites are partially changed, and synapses are removed or newly formed. What kind of system in neurons enables such characteristics of network structure?
We have studied intracellular signals, especially focusing on the mechanisms that control axonal morphology (Konishi et al., Science 2004, Kubota et al, Brain Res 2013, Inami et al, Brain Res 2017) . In particular, we have studied a systems for space dependent control in a neuron (Konishi and Setou, Nat Neurosci 2009, Seno et al., JCS 2016). We are conducting research on how the cytoskeleton, organelles, synaptic terminals, etc. are controlled at specific sites in the axon.
Research on brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases
Failure of the system that maintains the morphology and function of neurons causes synaptic dysfunction, axonal degeneration, and neuronal death. In many neurodegenerative diseases, the progression occurs through a complex network, thus it is difficult to understand the entire system. By studying how disruption of cellular system is related to diseases, we aim to contribute to the understanding of disease progression and protection of neurons.
Research on methods to control the shape and function of neurons
In order to promote research on neuronal morphology control, we are working on the application of technology to locally control the function of specific molecules. We are also exploring molecules that regulate axon morphology. Such research may contribute to the improvement of neuronal functions and neuronal regeneration.
Publication list is here.
Address
University of FUKUI
Faculty of Engineering
building 4, room S214 (Konishi)
building 4, room S205 (Miyata)
3-1-9, Bunkyo, Fukui, 910-8507
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