Institutes of Cellular Neurosciences I+II
At the Institutes of Cellular Neurosciences, we study how brain cells such as neurons and astrocytes jointly determine how the brain processes information and controls complex behaviors. We are part of the Medical Faculty of the University of Bonn and the University Hospital Bonn (UKB).
Research
Synaptic and glial plasticity Lab
Prof. Dr. Christian Henneberger (Head IZN I)
Synaptic transmission and its plasticity are not occurring in empty space, obviously, but in an environment that contains neurons but also glial cells and extracellular matrix. How such interactions of neurons and an abundant subtype of glia (astrocytes) determine hippocampal network function and dysfunction in disease is what our research primarily focuses on.
Molecular Synapse Biology Lab
Prof. Dr. Susanne Schoch-McGovern (Head IZN II)
Our group has an overarching research interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms of synaptic computation. The process of vesicular exocytosis of neurotransmitters is highly adaptable to neuronal activity, and alterations in synaptic properties have been proposed to be a fundamental mechanism for modifying the functional properties of neuronal networks, and thereby contributing to phenomena such as learning and memory.
Synapto- & Channelopathy Division
Prof. Dr. Albert Becker (IZN II)
Generalized and focal epilepsies manifest by episodic hyperexcitability clinically emerging as recurrent seizures. Our group's research focuses on key pathomechanisms by which genetic and acquired epilepsies turn neuronal networks chronically hyperexcitable, often referred to as epileptogenesis. Epileptogenic mechanisms very often include aberrant plasticity of synapses and ion channels, which we target by experimental therapies using CRISPRa/i and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). Our research starts from brain biopsies of patients undergoing epilepsy surgery for seizure relief as well as in-vitro and in-vivo model systems for temporal lobe epilepsy, low grade neuroepithelial neoplasms, and neurodevelopmental malformations.
Synaptic Neuroscience Lab
Prof. Dr. Dirk Dietrich (IZN II)
The Dietrich group seeks to understand brain function from the perspective that synaptic computation is the basis of any information processing and storage in the brain.
We try to understand how synaptic computation works, not only on the level of networks and single synapses but also on the micro- and nanostructural level. We also jointly explore the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity.
Besides synaptic computation, the wiring scheme of the brain is of utmost importance. Traditionally, wiring is viewed as being fully determined by synaptic connections from one neuron to another. However, our recent observations challenge that view partially and suggest that neighboring synapses exchange more information than textbooks state. We look deep into how this additional diffusive connectivity might play a role in the brain’s function.
Astrocytes and Epileptogenesis Lab
Prof. Dr. Christian Steinhäuser (IZN I)
The research focus of the Astrocytes and Epileptogenesis lab concerns the study of glial cells and their role in information processing in the healthy and diseased brain. Electrophysiological, molecular, and imaging investigation methods are combined to decipher the mechanisms of these previously largely misunderstood forms of neuron-glia interactions and better understand glial cells' functional heterogeneity.
Education
The Institutes of Celluar Neurosciences are strongly involved in international Master's and graduate programs and the European University NeurotechEU.
Master's program in Neurosciences
The Master of Science in Neurosciences at the University of Bonn is a two-year research-oriented, international study program. The curriculum is taught entirely in English and divided into modules, combining courses, lectures, seminars, and laboratory work.
Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience
BIGS Neuroscience is committed to providing a top-level, internationally competitive program in the rapidly developing field of neuroscience. The school focuses on dissecting the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying complex behavior, and applying these insights to better understand central nervous system disorders.
NeurotechEU: the European University of Brain and Technology
NeurotechEU is an alliance of nine leading European universities and over 250 partners from industry, academia, and civil society that have set themselves the mission of building an innovative, trans-European network of excellence for brain research and technologies.
Networks
The Institutes of Cellular Neurosciences is a member of the Bonn Center for Neuroscience and the Bonner Forum Biomedizin.
Bonn Center for Neuroscience
At the BCN, more than 300 scientists share a passion for understanding the brain, the most complex and fascinating organ in mammals...
Bonner Forum Biomedizin
The BFB is a life science network connecting researchers in the Bonn community. We support young scientists by offering a communication platform.
Institutes of Cellular Neurosciences
Contact Institute of Cellular Neurosciences II
Synapto- & Channelopathy Division
Prof. Dr. med. Albert Becker
+49-228-287-11352
Synaptic Neuroscience Lab
Prof. Dr. Dirk Dietrich
+49 228 287 1 9224/1 6563
Molecular Synapse Biology Lab
Prof. Dr. Susanne Schoch McGovern
+49-228-287-19109
Address
Building 81
Venusberg-Campus 1
53127 Bonn