Prof. Dr. Gerhard Schratt
Area of Interest
Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Synaptic Plasticity, Non-Coding RNAs
Prerequisites a student should comply with
Students should have a genuine interest in the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern the development and function of the mammalian brain, in particular the formation and plasticity of neuronal synapses. They should further be interested in the connections between perturbed synaptic function and major neuropsychiatric disorders, such as autism and mood disorders. Further prerequisites are willingness to work with animals (rats and mice), dedication to fundamental scientific research and readiness to adapt an independent work style.
Recommended master courses (Electives I+II of Learning Agreement of the Major)
227-1047-00 The Neurobiology of Consciousness
227-1051-00 Introduction to Systems Neuroscience
376-1305-00 Development of the Nervous System
276-1305-01 Neural Systems for Sensory, Motor and Higher Brain Functions
376-1306-00 Clinical Neuroscience
376-1307-00 Translational Neuroscience
376-1414-00 Current Topics in Brain Research
551-0326-00 Cell Biology
551-1323-00 Biochemie und Molekularbiologie
Research projects of the group
In the first project area, we are investigating how neuronal non-coding RNAs control the formation and function of neural circuits at the level of dendrites, spines and synapses. Hereby, we are focusing on different non-coding RNA classes, in particular microRNAs, circular RNAs and competing endogenous RNAs, as well as their target mRNAs. We employ a variety of biochemistry, cell and molecular biology techniques, including state-of-the art mass spectrometry, RNA sequencing and confocal microscopy technology.
In the second project area, we use genetically modified mice to study the impact of perturbed microRNA function on animal physiology and behavior, with a specific focus on memory, social and emotional behavior. Here, we employ ultratstructural analysis (multiphoton microscopy, EM), mouse behavioural screening and electrophysiological recordings.