STORFORSK-project coordinated by Johan Storm

Multilevel analysis of memory formation in the entorhinal-hippocampal circuit

Neuronal networks within the medial temporal lobe are essential for fast encoding and storage of episodic memories in humans and other mammals. Understanding synaptic function and plasticity in synapses of the entorhinal-hippocampal circuits is essential for understanding memory formation in the hippocampus. Our objective is to perform a comprehensive analysis of the functional properties of the entorhinal-hippocampal connection and its role in learning and memory. We will determine specific properties of this circuit and how its characteristics contribute to the formation of new memories. In parallel, the project is expected to generate new knowledge about general mechanisms operating in the brain, with respect to synaptic function and plasticity, neurogenesis and repair, and information transfer between neuronal populations during behavior. Our consortium is designed to combine the power of our two centres of excellence, EU and FUGE platforms, by bringing together expertise in stem cells, growth factors, construction of transgenic animals, in vivo and in vitro electrophysiology, neuropharmacology, confocal imaging, quantitative immunocytochemical electron microscopy, fibre tracing, 3-D reconstruction, advanced databasing, computational neuroscience, and behavioral testing.

Partners

Bjaalie, Jan G
The University of Oslo
j.g.bjaalie@medisin.uio.no

Bramham, Clive
The University of Bergen
clive.bramham@fys.uib.no

Danbolt, Niels Chr.
The University of Oslo
n.c.danbolt@medisin.uio.no

Krauss, Stefan
The National Hospital
stefan.krauss@medisin.uio.no

Moser, Edward
NTNU
edvard.moser@cbm.ntnu.no

Storm, Johan
The University of Oslo
j.f.storm@medisin.uio.no