Valentin Nägerl awarded by the Human Frontier Science Program

Title of the project : The extracellular space of the brain: a multi-modal analysis from nano-structure to in vivo function. 

The awarded team is led by Prof. Nägerl (IINS) and the other members are :
– Prof. Hrabetova (SUNY, New York, USA),
– Prof. Nedergaard (U. Copenhagen, Denmark)
– Prof. Nishizawa (Tohoku U. Sendai, Japan).

About the project

The goal of this project is deciphering the role of the extracellular space (ECS) for brain function.

In this project particular attention is paid to the dynamics of the ECS and its importance for waste clearance. The project is based on the detailed 3D-imaging of the ECS. The “SUSHI”-Variant of STED microcopy, which was recently developed by Dr. Nägerl, allows one to obtain excitingly detailed 3D data of the ECS morphology in living tissue and in vivo. This is complemented by diffusion studies in Dr. Hrabetova’s group using real-time iontophoresis. Dr. Nishizawa will develop and provide new markers that will enable the superresolution imaging via SUSHI STED microscopy. Dr. Nedergaard will use the SUSHI imaging to study changes of ECS volume/morphology during the sleep-wake cycle. The project combines the expertise of the four research groups to establish a comprehensive view of the extracellular space and how it influences brain function.

About the Human Frontier Science Program

The Human Frontier Science Program is an international program of research support implemented by the International Human Frontier Science Program Organization (HFSPO) based in Strasbourg, France. Its aims are to promote intercontinental collaboration and training in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research focused on the life sciences. HFSPO receives financial support from the governments or research councils of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, UK, USA, as well as from the European Union.

https://www.hfsp.org/awardees/newly-awarded