Synaptic Signaling in Memory and Chronic Pain-Related Disorders

Dr. Kimberly Tolias is a professor of Neuroscience at Baylor College of Medicine.

Synapses are specialized sites of contact between neurons that mediate information flow and storage in the brain. The ability of synapses to undergo activity-dependent changes in structure and function (i.e. synaptic plasticity) is critical for processes like learning and memory, while aberrant synaptic plasticity contributes to a wide range of neurological disorders including chronic pain and comorbid mood disorders. The Rac1 guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF, activator) Tiam1 has emerged as a key regulator of synaptic remodeling, influencing both physiological and pathological synaptic plasticity through its modulation of the underlying actin cytoskeleton. In this talk, I will discuss our ongoing research investigating the involvement of Tiam1-regulated synapse remodeling in learning and memory and chronic pain-associated disorders. Our hope is that understanding the intricate molecular mechanisms by which Tiam1 controls synaptic remodeling may offer insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies for enhancing cognitive function and alleviating chronic pain.

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Hosted by Dr. Susanne Ressl

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