To understand development of complex yet sophisticated neuronal circuits underlying higher brain function of mammals, integrative studies which cover from molecules to whole animals are indispensable. By using a wide range of techniques, such as mouse genetics (gene knockout), 2-photon microscopy, confocal microscopy, histology and behavioral analyses, we are studying mechanisms of development and function of mammalian neuronal circuits. In particular, we are interested in activity-dependent circuit development during postnatal stages.
(Left) The barrel map is visualized by generating thalamocortical axon (TCA)-GFP transgenic mouse.
(Right) A single layer 4 neuron is labeled by Supernova-RFP and dendritic refinement is analyzed by long-term in vivo two-photon imaging in neonates.
Nakazawa S, Mizuno H, Iwasato T. Differential dynamics of cortical neuron dendritic trees revealed by long-term in vivo imaging in neonates. Nat Commun. 2018 Aug 6;9(1):3106.
Mizuno H, Ikezoe K, Nakazawa S, Sato T, Kitamura K, Iwasato T. Patchwork-type spontaneous activity in neonatal barrel cortex layer 4 transmitted via thalamocortical projections. Cell Rep. 2018 Jan 2;22(1):123-135.
Luo W, Mizuno H, Iwata R, Nakazawa S, Yasuda K, Itohara S, Iwasato T. Supernova: A versatile vector system for single-cell labeling and gene function studies in vivo. Sci Rep. 2016 Oct 24;6:35747.
Mizuno H, Luo W, Tarusawa E, Saito YM, Sato T, Yoshimura Y, Itohara S, Iwasato T. NMDAR-regulated dynamics of layer 4 neuronal dendrites during thalamocortical reorganization in neonates. Neuron. 2014 Apr 16;82(2):365-79.