The PrePlast lab investigates the molecular mechanisms of presynaptic function and dysfunction.
The presynapse is the source of neurotransmitter and thus the place, where neuronal communication begins. The presynaptic and the axonal compartments also emerged among the neuronal compartments most vulnerable to damage in response to disturbances in signalling, protein homeostasis or energy supply. We believe that this high vulnerability relates to the high complexity of the presynaptic molecular machinery as well as to its extraordinary vivid membrane, ion and molecular dynamics. Currently, we are only beginning to comprehend all regulations, which allow the fine-tuning of neurotransmission in response to environmental and intrinsic stimuli. These processes, if disturbed, can cause presynaptic dysfunction in psychiatric, neurological and neurodegenerative conditions. The understanding of underlying mechanisms constitutes a key step towards development of therapeutic strategies and is therefore the long-term goal of of research.
Presynaptic plasticity lab 