Synapses are the central information processors in the brain. Their function, efficacy and plasticity are key determinants of all brain functions, and of the corresponding behavioral output. Conversely, aberrant synapse function is the cause of many neurological and psychiatric disorders. Our ultimate objective is to generate a functional virtual synapse, in silico, that covers both the presynaptic and postsynaptic compartments.

Nanoscale Architecture of Mitochondria in Synapses (A5)

Mitochondria are essential for neuronal growth, survival and synaptic function. They exhibit complex mobility behaviors, and accumulating evidence suggests that their shape and protein composition may be adapted to the specific sub-cellular needs, when mitochondria are moved from one cellular site to another. Here we aim to analyze the adaptation of mitochondria to specific neuronal sites, by combining live cell microscopy with super-resolution microscopy and electron microscopy.

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