Synaptic Transmission

Synaptic transmission is the main mechanism of information transfer between nerve cells. Unravelling the way in which synapses work is of central importance for advancing our knowledge about information processing in neuronal networks. Recent years have witnessed major advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of synapse function both pre- and postsynaptically, as well as in unravelling the mechanisms of short- and long-term synaptic plasticity. Research in synaptic transmission has been sparked by the development of novel optical and genetic tools for cellular imaging, which allow to image synapse function from the level of the single vesicle up to the mapping of long-range synaptic connections in the brain. The impact of synaptic plasticity on neuronal network processing is beginning to be addressed. Also, major discoveries about the molecular mechanisms that govern synapse assembly and synaptic connectivity are being made, and there is growing evidence that deficits in the wiring and the function of synapses is an early step in various neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.

The conference aims at bringing together leading scientists and young researchers from all areas of synaptic transmission, and will serve as a forum for discussing new developments in this highly interdisciplinary area of brain research. The conference should be interesting for students and scientists in neuroscience, as well as for anyone interested in nervous system function. To enhance the possibility that exciting recent results will be presented at the meeting, three speakers will be selected from the applicants, based on the submitted abstracts. Ample time will be allowed for the presentation of posters. In addition, 4-5 short talks (5 mins) of PhD students will be selected based on the submitted abstracts.