Prof. Dr. Sandra Blaess

The coordinated generation of a vast number of diverse neuronal cell types and their subsequent organization into neuronal networks during development is critical for the proper functioning of the adult brain. We are particularly interested in understanding the development and function of the dopaminergic system. Dopaminergic neurons modulate movement, reward behavior and cognition. Degeneration or dysfunction of dopaminergic neurons is implicated in several common human disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia. There is increasing evidence that some of these disorders are linked to aberrant development of the underlying circuits. However, only little is known about the mechanisms that control the formation of the dopaminergic circuits in the healthy brain. We investigate how the identity of dopaminergic subpopulations is established during development and how this identity determines the final location and function of these same neuronal subsets in the adult brain.