Mapping the synaptic brain toponome of chimpanzees and humans by new technology (MELC): Searching for lead protein networks of cognition

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Walter Schubert
• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2007 to 2010
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 49209945

By a new technology (MELC) it is possible for the first time to detect and quantify the functional architecture of protein networks (defined as the toponome) in biological structures (Schubert W. et al. Nat Biotechnol. 24, 1270 – 1278, 2006). MELC involves cyclical imaging processes automatically, thereby overcoming the spectral limitations of fluorescence microscopy. In this publication, the mapping of synaptic protein networks in the CNS has already proven to be straightforward, because, after having established this technology, we succeeded in finding so called lead proteins in synapses that appear to control pathological functions. It is now principally possible to functionally map the complete synaptic toponome of the brain (the local operational level of the corresponding genome fraction). Thereby topological hierarchies of proteins are found, which contain lead proteins controlling the local integrity of their corresponding protein networks. In the present project this new technology will be applied to map and compare the brain synaptic toponome of chimpanzees and humans: parts of the frontal lobe, which are held to be critical for evolutionary differences between these species. The aim is to search for and find synaptic protein networks specific for the human brain in these areas and therefore likely to code for cognitive functions.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants