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Experience dependent dynamics of  biochemical signaling in intact neuronal circuits

The Laviv Lab

 Tel Aviv University

Neurons in the brain have a remarkable capacity to undergo changes in function and structure throughout life. How does sensory experience alter neuronal activity and ultimately triggers behavioral adaptations?  We address this question by studying the role of neuronal biochemical signaling dynamics in experience dependent plasticity. We use advanced microscopy, gene editing and in vivo imaging to unravel protein signaling dynamics and neuronal activity in awake behaving mice.

Research

Modulation and maintenance of neuronal activity is carried out by a vast and complex networks of biochemical signaling pathways. We design and implement biosensors which allow to monitor protein signaling activity in awake mice using specialized microscopy, two-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging 2pFLIM.

An image of GCaMP activity (green) overlaid with red-shifted CREB sensor (magenta) in the motor cortex during in vivo imaging of a mouse walking on a rotating disc

Latest Publications

In Vivo Imaging of the Coupling between Neuronal and CREB Activity in the Mouse Brain

Our recent publication in Neuron

We have engineered a new biosensor for CREB which can enable simultaneous imaging of neuronal activity and CREB activity in awake mice 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0896627319310372 

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In the image: In vivo imaging  of CREB activity levels in L2/3 cells in the somatosensory cortex while mice undergo sensory enrichment.
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