Research topics and projects

The biological basis of cognitive function in the normal and diseased brain is the topic of our research. We mainly use mice as animal models and develop new approaches to analyze their cognitive performance. Analysis of behavior is combined with functional neuroanatomy, stereo-tactic lesions, pharmacology, and manipulation of gene expression in the brain (in collaboration with other labs). We also study the influence of normal genetic variation, environment and life style (in particular physical activity) on cognitive function and the underlying brain circuitry.

In order to disseminate knowhow and good practice in mouse phenotyping, we conttribute to the training activities of the ZNZ and ZIHP, regularly accept guest scientists and organize international shools and courses. In 2011, we have organized an EMBO Practical Course on Mouse Phenotyping with 16 participants. Similar courses had already been organized in 2001 and 2003.

Cognitive phenotyping of normal and transgenic mice

From numerous partners we obtain mouse models of human diseases that affect cognitive function (e.g. dementia, intellectual disability, autism, schizophrenia) as well as mouse lines which carry mutations of genes relevant to cognition (e.g. RAS-GRF, TrkB, CREB, tPA, neurotrypsin, neuroserpin, Arg3.1, mTOR). We screen them using a comprehensive battery of standardized behavioral tests and also develop new approaches to cognitive phenotyping of mice in the IntelliCage (NewBehavior AG, Zurich), a fully automated social home cage environment that eliminates most of the stressful experiences associated with conventional tests. Comparison of phenotypic changes across different mouse models and behavioral tests permits better definition of different domains of cognitive function in the mouse and makes the identification of supporting brain systems and cellular processes more reliable.

Epo and cognition
In this joint project with Max Gassmann (Veterinary Physiology UZH) and Klaus Oberauer (Psychology UZH), we investigate whether EPO enhances cognitive functions via direct effects on the brain. To this end, we assess cognitive function in EPO-treated, hypoxia-exposed, and genetically modified mice, as well as human volunteers.

EuroSPIN - Synaptic protein networks in neurological and psychiatric diseases
We are a member of the FP7 EuroSPIN consortium whose objective is to develop new therapeutic approaches to psychiatric diseases based on the synaptopathy model. Our principal contribution is to improve the behavioral phenotyping of mouse models of schizophrenia and autism.

Large scale spatial cognition in birds

In order to study spatial cognition on a large scale and without the limitations of the laboratory environment, we also collaborate with the Hans-Peter Lipp (Anatomy UZH) to investigate the homing behavior of pigeons. This project aims at elucidating the pathways of freely moving animals in their natural environment, and analyzing electrophysiological correlates of path finding. The homing paths of pigeons flying alone or in groups are recorded using micro GPS loggers. Using concurrent EEG recording in the flying bird, we try to identify brain structures changing activity during flight.