Gosgnach Lab

University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
What the facility does

Research into network structure and function of the mammalian nervous system

Areas of expertise

Neural circuits composed of multiple interneuron cell types located in the central nervous system (CNS) are responsible for generating many simple rhythmic behaviours in mammals. The laboratory uses a molecular genetic approach to identify distinct populations of interneurons that comprise these circuits, anatomical techniques to investigate their network connectivity, and physiological/behavioural techniques to determine the specific function of these neural circuits during behaviour.

These studies provide key information regarding the development and function of neural circuits within the CNS, and may help to devise therapies aimed at enhancing function after brain/spinal cord injury.

Research services

Single-cell electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, laser capture microdissection, fluorescent, bright field, confocal, two-photon microscopy

Sectors of application
  • Life sciences, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment

Specialized lab

Equipment

Function

Molecular Biology

Laser capture microdissector

Capture and analyze content of single cells within nervous system

Electrophysiology

Patch clamp recorder

Record activity from single cells or population of cells within nervous system

Anatomy

Leica Fluorescent Microscope

Analyze structure and connectivity of cells

Anatomy Photon microscopes (2) Analyze structure and connectivity of cells