Synapses created between presynaptic neuronal terminals and HEK293 cells expressing postsynaptic neuroreceptors

Fields: Neuroscience

Location: Queensland Brain Institute

Type of student: Extra-curricular only

Brief synopsis:

Synapses created between presynaptic neuronal terminals and HEK293 cells expressing postsynaptic neuroreceptors have been instrumental in our studies of neuroreceptor variants found in patients with genetic epilepsies. This system allowed us not only to study pathogenic neuroreceptors in isolation from other subtypes found in neuronal synapses, but also to test which pharmacological agents are the best for the treatment of the disease. Yet, there are only a few research groups in the world that use this preparation. This is largely because neurons and HEK293 cells seems complex to an untrained user and because the range of applications of this method is not well understood. Therefore, we see a need for a comprehensive review of this technique.