Research

Research Focus: Neuronal Connectivity in Brain Development and Disease

The research goal of the Bonni laboratory is to identify the fundamental mechanisms and principles that govern neuronal connectivity in brain development and disease. Axon and dendrite morphogenesis culminating in synapse differentiation as well as neuronal death play a central role in the establishment of neural circuits. During the past few years, we have identified some of the first key cell-intrinsic mechanisms that regulate neuronal connectivity in the mammalian brain. We are building on these discoveries to provide deeper insights in brain development. In addition, using the perspective of developmental studies of neuronal connectivity, we are probing the pathogenesis of brain diseases. We employ in our studies a combination of molecular and cell biological, biochemical, and genetic approaches and use neurons from the rat or mouse brain in primary culture or in vivo. We are currently focused on three major areas of research:

• Cell-Intrinsic Mechanisms Regulating Neuronal Morphogenesis
• Mechanisms of Neuronal Cell Death
• Deregulation of Developmental Pathways in Brain Diseases