Silvia Arber

Motor circuit function

Our studies aim at identifying the principles that allow neuronal circuits to orchestrate accurate and timely control of motor output behavior and learning in response to a variety of stimuli such as sensory cues or voluntary initiation of movement. To decipher how motor circuits engage in the control of movement, we elucidate the organization and function of neuronal circuits by studying synaptic connectivity, genetic and molecular identity as well as functional properties.

We address these questions using multi-facetted approaches combining many technologies. These include state-of-the-art mouse genetics, development and implementation of viral technologies for transsynaptic circuit tracing and functional manipulation, gene expression profiling of identified neuronal subpopulations, electrophysiology and behavioral analysis.

The combination of these approaches allows us to assess connectivity and manipulate function in order to determine the role of defined circuit elements in animal behavior. Furthermore, it puts us in a position to uncover the mechanisms involved in the assembly of motor circuits during development as well as circuit reorganization during learning and upon disease or injury.

Additional information
FMI report pages for Silvia Arber

Contact
Silvia Arber
Isabella Bogdal