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Our research focuses on unique information-processing mechanisms within the nervous system. We've discovered that certain cells in the mouse hippocampus, a region critical for memory and spatial-temporal encoding, have 'shortcuts' enabling dendritic signals to directly trigger axonal output, bypassing the cell body.
This phenomenon, prevalent in over 50% of the cells in some areas, allows for stronger and more resilient synaptic inputs against brain wave-induced inhibition. Interestingly, these inputs predominantly originate from the opposite brain hemisphere, suggesting a key role in synchronizing brain-wide information processing.
Current Research Areas
- Human Brain Study: Extending our findings from mice to humans, we're examining human brain tissues to understand the diversity of dendritic axon origins and compare it with our murine models.
- Interneuron Research: Our investigations now include interneurons, known for their diverse axon origins and crucial role in inhibitory network control. We aim to determine if the mechanisms we observed in excitatory neurons are also present in interneurons of both mice and humans.
- Development and Function of AcD Cells: We are exploring how and when dendritic axon-originating cells (AcD cells) develop, and whether their formation is influenced by learning or other neuronal activities. This is being studied through murine slice cultures and behavioral experiments.
If you are interested in collaborating with us on one of these fascinating topics, please dont hesitate to contact us.
We also welcome students of medicine and natural sciences who want to write their thesis with us (Bachelor, Master, MD, PhD).
Dr. Christian Thome (christian.thome@jku.at)
