Message from Prof Kano

Department of Neurophysiology
Professor Masanobu Kano

Our group is interested in understanding the physiological function of synaptic transmission in the CNS and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Neural computation in the brain is realized by neuronal networks formed by billions of synaptic connections. In most central neurons, synaptic efficacy is not constant but modified by a variety of factors, including synaptic plasticity and development. During development, immature neurons initially form synaptic connections not only to their final target neurons but to other peripheral neurons. The functionally important synapses are strengthened and redundant synapses are eventually eliminated to form proper neuronal circuits. It has also been shown that various forms of synaptic plasticity, e.g., long-term potentiation/depression, exist in the adult brain, and it is believed that they are the basic processes of learning and memory.
The main subjects of our research are;

(1) Refinement of synaptic organization during cerebellar development
(2) Retrograde synaptic modulation mediated by endogenous cannabinoids
(3) Synaptic integration in the intact animal
(4) Synaptic plasticity and motor learning in the cerebellum

The focus of our research is to observe neuronal activities in real time in the intact neurons. We use whole-cell patch-clamp technique, calcium imaging, two-photon imaging and their combinations in various preparations (cultured neurons, brain slices and intact animals). We are always open to strongly motivated young scientists, who are interested in the function of synapses and the molecular/cellular basis of higher brain functions.

For further information, please contact Masanobu Kano:
mkano-tky m.u-tokyo.ac.jp