NeuroExcell · Modulation of neuronal Signaling by Brain Extracellular Space Structure and Dynamics

NeuroExcell aims to reveal physiological roles of the ECS structure and dynamics in directly regulating neuronal signalling, by taking advantage of the innovative new Super-resolution Shadow Imaging (SUSHI) technique. It will elucidate the nanoscale structure of the ECS of entire mouse brain hemispheres at different planes of the brain. Inherently, it will reveal simultaneously all cells as analyzable shadows what will provide unprecedented ECS maps, to complement general existing cellular maps. The results will further clarify the distribution and duration of structural ECS dynamics across areas, and will disclose the relation between ECS structure, dynamics and protein distribution in the extracellular matrix. Investigating this in live tissue slices will further allow direct visualization and analysis of diffusional processes what will help to disclose the physiological roles of the ECS.The fundamental nature of the results, and the advanced technological framework, will be of fundamental interest for neurophysiologists, glia cell biologists, and glymphatic system researchers, among others. NeuroExcell will be carried out in a multidisciplinary environment involving advanced fluorescence imaging methods, classic electrophysiological techniques, computational modelling, biophysical theory and biochemistry. For the project I will join an emerging neuroscience institute where I will further enhance and diversify my professional competences through advanced training and quality research, adding to my development toward becoming an independent research group leader.