Mathematical modelling of bi-directional synaptic signalling

 Principal Investigator: Dr Radu Calinescu
 
 Type of project: York Centre for Chronic Diseases and Disorders/Wellcome Trust Internship
 
 Start date: June 2013
 End date: June 2014

Project summary

The cleft separating neurons at typical excitatory synapses in the vertebrate central nervous system contains intricate molecular networks that provide structural support and avenues for communication. While functions and molecular structures of isolated neurotransmitter receptors, adhesion molecules and secreted proteins from this network are being increasingly elucidated, its higher order architecture and functional impact remain unknown. This project will combine recent advances in structural biology and biophysics of cell surface proteins with tool-supported stochastic modelling, contributing towards an integrated understanding of the organisation and function of neuronal synapses.

People

Postdoctoral researcher: Dr Andrew Gallimore