István Katona

Non-canonical forms of cannabinoid signaling in the developing and adult forebrain

Lab: Momentum Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest

Abstract: Presynaptic CB1 cannabinoid receptors play fundamental roles in the fine-tuning of neurotransmitter release probability at central synapses. However, our knowledge on the molecular parameters, which determine when, where and how CB1 receptors control synaptic communication between specific neuron types in intact brain circuits still remains rather limited due to technical obstacles. In my talk, I will first introduce an approach, which combines whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recording, confocal microscopy and STORM superresolution imaging. This methodology enables cell-specific integrated analysis of physiological and anatomical properties with nanoscale molecular imaging even in tissue preparations. Based on new data obtained with the help of this approach, in the second part of the lecture I will delineate the distinct molecular principles governing canonical and non-canonical forms of cannabinoid signaling at hippocampal GABAergic synapses. Finally, I will present unpublished findings on a new non-canonical form of cannabinoid signaling, which has an unexpected function in cell fate decision in the developing brain.

Inmed meeting room, Monday October 8th, 11 a.m.