Research Group Neuroglia
Main Research Focus
For our experimental approaches, we use rodent retina to investigate physiological and pathophysiological processes in the CNS. The neural retina as part of the brain represents a high complex sensory structure. The clearly defined laminar and cellular constitution allows investigation of neuro-glial interactions, in particular, after experimental injury. Our research focus is on the role of glial cells, particularly Müller cells and microglia in experimental models of retinal degeneration including optic neuropathies.
Glia are involved in homeostasis of the CNS and accumulating evidence supports the importance of neuron-glial interactions for controlling several brain processes such as neurogenesis, myelination, synapse formation, neuronal migration, proliferation, differentiation, and even neuronal signalling. Until recently, the role of glia in neurodegeneration has been largely considered secondary to neuronal dysfunction, however, recent progress in understanding the role of these cells points to an involvement in disease initiation and progression.
The aim is to develop feasible therapeutic approaches to overcome neural damage based on glial-mediated neuroprotection. Additionally, we investigate the putative regenerative potential of stem/progenitor-like glial cells, in both in vitro and in vivo.