Visualization of serotonin dynamics

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Olivia Andrea Masseck
• Subject Area: Experimental Models for the Understanding of Nervous System Diseases ; Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology ; Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells ; Molecular and Cellular Neurology and Neuropathology
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 408367170

Worldwide the number of mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression are on the rise. One common feature of these diseases seems to be an imbalance of serotonin levels. Though so far technical and methodological limitations made it impossible to elucidate the function of 5-HT brain levels and 5-HT signaling pathways in more detail. To overcome these limitations, we developed different genetically encoded serotonin sensors to visualize with high temporal and spatial resolution. New red-shifted variantes will be developed and combined with already existing 5-HT sensors to investigate in which way the serotonergic neuromodulation is involved in major depressive disorders. A detailed understanding neuromodulatory circuitries and their action on activity patterns in more detail will pave the way to novel therapeutic approaches in major depressive disorders.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants