Optogenetic analysis of membrane compartmentalization between and within excitable cells (P06)

• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: since 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 450648163

Networks of excitable cells are formed by electrical (gap) junctions. In project P06, we will address the role of gap junction subunits (and accessory stomatins) in muscular and nervous systems of an intact animal (Caenorhabditis elegans), using state-of-the-art optogenetic actuation and voltage imaging in closed-loop. This project will decipher such gap junction networks acting in muscular electrical compartmentalization, and in neural circuit function regulating behavior.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1507: Protein Assemblies and Machineries in Cell Membranes
• Applicant Institution: Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Alexander Gottschalk