Exploring synaptic remodeling with graphene optoelectronic probes

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 DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The activity and plasticity of dendritic spines and synapses underlie normal cognitive processes, such as learning and memory and are the basis for the complex circuitry found in the brain. Dendritic spines, which are actin-rich protrusions that emanate from the dendrite shaft, comprise most postsynaptic terminals of excitatory synapses. Not surprisingly, abnormalities in dendritic spines are associated with a number of neurological disorders, including Fragile-X syndrome, Down's syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, autism, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. Despite the importance of spines and synapses in the central nervous system, the molecular mechanisms that regulate the activity and plasticity of these structures are not well understood largely because of the current lack of available technologies for probing these structures at single spine/synapse levels. Furthermore, the capability to study synaptic activity and plasticity in individual spines and synapses would provide significant insight into the function and molecular mechanisms that regulate these structures. We are developing novel neuron-glia co-culture microfluidic devices with integrated graphene sensors and electrodes and combining them with scanning photocurrent microscopy to detect and stimulate spine plasticity at sub- synaptic resolution (Specific Aim I). We will use this technology to record electrical properties at individual dendritic spines and synapses and to examine the effects of different electrical stimuli on these structures. Since reorganization of te actin cytoskeleton is thought to underlie the activity, plasticity, and function of dendritic spine and synapses, we will explore the role of actin-binding protein VASP in regulating synaptic activity and plasticity (Specific Aim II). We will alter the expression of VASP and determine the effect on the electrical properties of individual dendritic spines and synapses with the graphene probes. Moreover, we will determine the contribution of this protein to synaptic plasticity. The development of the proposed microfluidic platforms will be of great interest and benefit to neurobiologists by providing a powerful technology for investigating the mechanisms that underlie the electrical activity and plasticity of dendritic spines and synapses at a single synaps level.