Cellular and Molecular Methodologies

Researchers use a range of cellular and molecular approaches to investigate functioning of the nervous system. These include:

Electrophysiology

• In vivo and in vitro analysis of synaptic plasticity (LTP, LTD, PPF)
• Single cell recording
• Patch clamp
• Neuronal ensemble recording with multielectrode arrays in the freely-moving animal
• Transcranial direct current stimulation

Genetic Manipulation

• Transgenic and knockout mice
• Drosophila-based models
• siRNA and viral gene delivery

Cell culture systems

• Primary cultures of neurons and glia
• Primary T cell cultures
• Endothelial cell cultures
• Stem cell cultures

Analyses include:	Techniques include:
Cell death and viability assays Cytokine, neurotrophin and neurotransmitter release Cell signalling Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species production Lysosomal stability Mitochondrial function	ELISA HPLC Real time PCR Flow cytometry and Immunohistochemistry Immunoprecipitation and Western Immunoblotting Proteomics