Topic: axolotl

The salamander axolotl (Ambyostoma mexicanum) is a model for studying nervous system evolution, development, and regeneration. Axolotls can regenerate injuries to the central and peripheral nervous system making them an ideal model to study formation and regeneration of neuronal circuits. Tools to visualize and manipulate cells of the axolotl nervous system with high efficiency, spatial and temporal precision are therefore greatly required. Recombinant adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are frequently used for in vivo gene transfer of the nervous system but virus-mediated gene delivery to the axo

Axolotl, despite being a vertebrate, showcase an astonishing regenerative capacity even in highly complex tissues such as the central nervous system. Most studies in regenerative model systems concentrate solely on molecular or morphological aspects of regeneration, while the examination of functional outcomes in vivo is often overlooked. It is however crucial to assess if morphological regeneration also leads to restoration of function to its pre-injury state.This project addresses axolotl visual behavior through the establishment of a novel assay. Weused a computer-controlled projection syst

The axolotl has extraordinary regenerative capabilities, and the axolotl tail is particularly suitable to study regeneration of the spinal cord and locomotor-related spinal circuits because it possesses all relevant structures that are found further up the body axis. Using molecular genetic analysis, GCaMP imaging and optogenetics, I aim to investigate the patterning and functionality of the regenerated nervous system on multiple levels from sensory input to activity to motion: (1) projection patterns, connectivity, and muscle innervation within and across muscle segments; (2) swimming behavio

Despite the axolotl’s exceptional ability to regenerate complex tissues, little research has focused on this phenomenon in the brain. We aim to understand whether a morphological repair observed during axolotl brain regeneration is accompanied by a functional restoration of neuronal circuits. To do so, we are establishing state-of-the-art neuroscience tools in our model system, namely GCaMP imaging of neuronal activity, behavioral assays and optogenetic stimulation. Using these methods, we will investigate the visuomotor circuit of the axolotl in intact, injured and regenerating conditions.Rec