In vivo high-resolution optical imaging brings new unprecedented options how to study mammalian brain under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. We combine fast intravital optophysiological techniques and molecular biology to investigate the precise neural circuit mechanisms underlying seizure initiation and propagation. Using chronic cranial window preparation in mice, we are able to observe long-term dynamics of defined neuronal populations in the context of epileptogenesis and ictogenesis. Using ultrafast one-photon DMD microscopy, two-photon compressive microscopy and two-photon/three-photon fast raster-scan microscopy, we are able to measure activity of individual neurons with millisecond precision and/or record their activity and precise subcellular morphology with a depth limit of 1.5 mm in the intact awake brain.
By employing our state-of-the-art optophysiological hardware we aim to describe the role of defined local neuronal populations in neocortical seizures, with emphasis on different interneuronal subtypes. Furthermore, we aim to test the previously postulated hypotheses suggesting possible subtype-specific roles of local interneuronal populations in focal cortical seizures, high-frequency oscillations and ictogenicity of cortical malformations in an in vivo setting in order to find targets for intervention. We further focus on microenvironment of the brain malformations, chronic sterile inflammation and senescence of the mutated neurons. As a side research branch, we collaborate on a study of the complex dynamics of glioblastoma development and pathology. Using our chronic cranial window preparation, we are testing a promising therapeutic approach based on nanoparticle-mediated intervention.
More information about the research team members, their publications and current grant projects is on the EpiReC website: Laboratory of Neural Circuit Optophysiology | EpiReC.
