Our Research
The group of Ingrid Ehrlich studies how neural circuits work, focusing on synapses — the connection points between neurons. By uncovering the cellular and molecular processes that regulate synaptic function and plasticity, they aim to better understand brain health and disease.
The Challenge
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Brain complexity often requires animal experiments (mainly in mice)
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Many aspects of synaptic function are still poorly understood
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Need for models that are both accessible and closer to the real brain
Our Approach
The Ehrlich group uses organotypic brain slice cultures, in which small sections of brain tissue are maintained in a dish for several weeks. These cultures preserve the diversity of neuronal and non-neuronal cells as well as the original network architecture, making them a close match to the in vivo brain. They also provide a flexible platform for experiments, allowing genetic manipulations and parallel drug testing to be performed on tissue from the same animal (ex vivo).
Focus on the 3Rs
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Replace animal experiments where possible with ex vivo brain slice cultures
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Reduce animal use by enabling multiple tests from a single animal
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Refine in vivo work by first screening in slice cultures, making later experiments more targeted
Future Directions
Looking ahead, the team plans to expand their work by developing slice cultures from additional brain regions that are relevant for various neurological disorders. They will also bring their expertise to collaborative projects for coculturing neurons with organoids ("mini-organs") from other tissues.
Our Expert
Ingrid Ehrlich
Prof. Dr.Head of Department
[Image: Patrick Münster]