Institute of Developmental Neuroscience

Our research focuses on the mechanisms underlying the development of neuronal networks under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. In particular, we aim to elucidate how patterns of early electrical activity control local and long-range wiring in the brain in relationship with the emergence of cognitive behavior and (multi)sensory perception.

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We have pioneered the functional dissection of neuronal circuits during development using in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics. We showed that dynamic interactions between neurons early in life not only shape the adult brain function and behavior but are also of paramount importance for circuit miswiring and disabilities in mental disorders.

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link_iconMore about Prof. Dr. Ileana Hanganu-Opatz
link_iconProf. Dr. Ileana Hanganu-Opatz

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ILEANA HANGANU-OPATZ
Director - Institute of Development Neuroscience

KEY PUBLICATIONS

link_iconBlood pressure pulsations modulate central neuronal activity via mechanosensitive ion channels.L. J. Salameh, S. H. Bitzenhofer, I. L. Hanganu-Opatz, M. Dutschmann, V. Egger. Science 383(6682):eadk8511 (2024)

link_iconReorganization of adolescent prefrontal cortex circuitry is required for mouse cognitive maturation. J. A. Pöpplau, T. Schwarze, M. Dorofeikova, I. Pochinok, A. Günther, A. Marquardt, I. L. Hanganu-Opatz. Neuron 112(3):421-440 (2023)

link_iconA transient developmental increase in prefrontal activity alters network maturation and causes cognitive dysfunction in adult mice. S. H. Bitzenhofer, J. A. Pöpplau, M. Chini, A. Marquardt, I.L. Hanganu-Opatz. Neuron 109(8):1350-1364 (2021)

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