Integrity of the lectican-based extracellular matrix and epilepsy

 

 

Epileptic seizures are strong, pathogenic discharges of neuronal networks. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of the brain stabilizes neuronal networks and is an important extracellular factor controlling various forms of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP), short-term plasticity and structural plasticity. On the systemic level, local ECM removal leads to altered learning performance in rodents. Thus, an intact ECM is a prerequisite for normal brain function. Interestingly, strong neuronal activity as observed during epileptiform discharges leads to altered ECM composition and the release and activation of ECM processing proteases. In this project, we aim (1) To evaluate the role of ECM components in epileptogenesis and maintenance of status epilepticus. (2) To evaluate the role of ECM-modifying proteases in epilepsy. (3) Study morphological and molecular parameters after seizures in mice lacking components of the ECM or MMPs. (4) Interfering with ECM and protease activity alterations to suppress seizure phenotypes and develop potential treatment strategies.

 

 

 

 

Supervisors:  Prof. Eckart D. Gundelfinger/ Dr. Renato Frischknecht/ Dr. Constanze Seidenbecher (or someone with similar expertise)

 

To know more about the lab: 

http://www.lin-magdeburg.de/en/departments/neurochemistry_and_molecular_biology/index.jsp

 

To apply :

send a CV, a copy of higher education diploma, a list of completed subjects and grades achieved, and a motivation letter stating research interests and indicating the first and second choice among ECMED partners to Dr Renato Frischknecht