Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology

The thalamus is a part of the brain that plays a key role in the processing of sensory information, regulating the level of awareness, directing attention and producing a behavioural response. Because thalamic dysfunctions are observed in the pathophysiology of mental disorders, such as schizophrenia and autism, understanding how neurones are specified and maturate in the thalamus may be relevant to understanding the aetiology of these psychiatric conditions.

Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology explores molecular mechanisms regulating thalamic development, identity and function. We are interested in transcriptional control over differentiation and maturation of thalamic neurones, and regulation of thalamic axon growth and guidance to the cerebral cortex, focusing on the role of the LEF1/TCF transcription factors (Wnt signalling pathway effectors), TCF7L2 in particular. The effects of disturbed development and maintenance of thalamic functions in adult are also under our investigation. In addition, we investigate the involvement of LEF1/TCF in the differentiation of astrocytes.

We work with in vivo models (genetically modified mouse and zebrafish) and primary cultures (neural precursors, neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes). We use a variety of molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology techniques, as well as bioinformatics.