They modulate the activity of neuronal networks by changing the interaction of the neurons within a given network or between different networks. Peptides also function as switches turning neuronal networks on or off depending on the behavioral and developmental context of the animal.
Peptides are therefore an important factor of neuronal plasticity.
As a first step, the occurrence of these peptides within the STNS of different species is being investigated with immunocytochemical methods. Secondly, we are investigating the action of these peptides on the networks of the STGN by electrophysiological techniques. The goal of this project is to analyse the mechanisms by which peptides are able to modulate neural networks, both on the level of the whole network and on the level of a single cell. The degree to which network modulation by peptides is dependent on the developmental state of the animal is also being examined. Localization, structure and biological functions of a native allatostatin-like inhibitory neuropeptide of the crayfish, Orconectes limosus .