Molecular characterization of neuronal subtype diversity

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The complex circuitry that makes up the nervous system is accompanied by a tremendous amount of cellular diversity. Understanding the functional and molecular characteristics that distinguish one neuronal cell type from another is a central problem in neuroscience. Our research is focused on addressing the mechanisms that underlie cell type diversity in an interneuronal cell class with the retina, known as bipolar cells. Retinal bipolar cells comprise a heterogeneous and functionally complex class of interneurons essential for receiving, processing and transmitting visual signals. At least 10 morphologically distinct bipolar cell types have been described and are highly conserved in mice and humans. These cell types possess unique physiological properties and gene expression patterns, indicating that distinct regulatory mechanisms underlie their function and maintenance. While electrophysiological and gene-targeting approaches have driven our understanding of fundamental aspects of retinal neurobiology, our understanding of retinal function and circuitry at the neuronal subtype level has been challenged by the ability to identify and discriminate between different subtypes. The goal of this research program is to utilize molecular and transgenic strategies that will enable us to elucidate the molecular and functional diversity of retinal bipolar subtypes. The aims of this research program utilize novel and powerful approaches that will to shed light on the mechanisms underlying retinal circuit formation and visual signaling. My laboratory has the expertise and collaborative input to make significant progress in this area. This research will provide basic knowledge for understanding retinal visual signaling and related disease. In addition, this work will serve as a model for neuronal subtype diversity in other parts of the nervous system.