Protein Targeting & Synaptic Development in Cultured Neurons

Session III, Virtual Room 1: BIO: From Dendrites to Dinner

The development of distinct axons and dendrites of neurons and the correct protein targeting to these regions is essential for the proper development and connectivity of the nervous system. The development of individual neurons depends on the interplay of inherent genetic mechanisms with local environmental conditions. One area of recent work in the lab focuses on identifying axonally targeted proteins to investigate the mechanisms of targeting proteins specifically to the axon versus the cell body and dendrites of cultured neurons and the role this plays in the formation of maintenance of the neuron’s axon. Another line of research focuses on the effects of environmental toxins such as bis-phenol A (BPA) on the development of dendritic arborization and synapse formation.