Nano-level transformation of the fine arrangement of synaptic molecules elicited by learning and environmental changes

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20H03427
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 48030:Pharmacology-related
• Research Institution: The University of Tokyo
• Principal Investigator: Hirose kenzo 東京大学, 大学院医学系研究科(医学部), 教授 (00292730)
• Project Period (FY): 2020-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: シナプス分子 / 超解像イメージング

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Synaptic transmission efficiency is believed to change in response to external stimuli such as learning and the environment. We have revealed that the efficiency of central synapses is controlled by the nanoscale arrangement of synaptic proteins, highlighting the importance of fine molecular organization of synapses in understanding the mechanisms of higher brain functions. This study aimed to elucidate the changes in the nanoscale arrangement of synaptic molecules in response to external stimuli in animals. Specifically, we established a super-resolution microscopy platform to visualize the synaptic molecular localization in the mouse brain and revealed the fine changes in synaptic molecular organization caused by differences in housing conditions.

Free Research Field

薬理学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究は、脳の高次機能や学習・記憶形成のメカニズムをシナプス分子の微細配置に着目して理解を目指す点が学術的に意義がある。また、本研究の成果は神経変性疾患の研究における貢献や薬物開発への応用が期待される。シナプスの異常や機能の変化は神経変性疾患に関与しており、この研究によってそれらの異常な配置を解明することで、新たな治療法や薬物の開発につながる可能性がある。