Synaptic Plasticity and Development

The group focuses on studying the mechanisms guiding activity-dependent development of glutamatergic circuitry in the limbic system and in particular, the roles of ionotropic glutamate receptors in this process. So far, we have identified several novel features related to functions and regulation of AMPA and kainate-type glutamate receptors at the developing synapses. Our current research aims to understand in detail how these mechanisms contribute to development and fine-tuning of the neural circuits underlying behavior under physiological and aberrant conditions, such as early life stress.