Research Themes
1. The function of actin cytoskeletal protein in dendritic spines
The dendritic spines is known as major postsynaptic sites, and the shape of dendritic spine is supported by actin cytoskeleton. We focus on drebrin, a spine-resident side-binding protein of F-actin, which is thought to be involved in learning and memory as well as in cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer's disease. We have studied the functional role of drebrin in dendritic spines, and have also explored novel binding partners of drebrin.
2. The function of transcription factors related to long-term memory
Long-term memory is the memory that can be stored for a long period of time. It requires newly protein synthesis and structural changes of neural circuits in the brain. It should be supported by transcription factors that regulate dynamic gene expression during the step for memory consolidation.
The inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER), a transcriptional inhibitor, prevents the formation of long-term memory by suppressing transcription of certain genes that are crucial for memory consolidation. We have tried to identify the target genes of ICER and to know their roles in long-term memory.
3. Synaptic abnormalities in animal models of neuropsychiatric disorders
We have studied the relationship between behavioral abnormalities and the morphology/function of brain synapses, using animal models of stress-induced neuropsychiatric disorders (e.g., human depression and post traumatic stress disorder) or developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder.
