MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London
Science for Health
Troy Margrie group
Sensory processing in single cells, circuits and behaviour
Our goal is to understand how the brain uses the activity of individual and collections of neurons to encode a sensory stimulus. We use a top-down, multi-disciplinary approach towards understanding sensory representation that allows us to explore this fundamental issue from the systems to the cellular level. Specifically, we are investigating several key aspects:
- the relationship between neuronal connectivity and function
- how sensory information is encoded and integrated by individual synapses and cells
- how sensory representation is distributed across populations of cells
- the significance of distributed neuronal activity to sensory perception
One particularly useful technique, referred to as two-photon targeted patching, allows us to optically record activity over large populations of cells while simultaneously examining synaptic integration using intracellular whole-cell recordings. This technique can also be used in combination with genetic indicators that permit imaging and electrophysiological characterisation of specific populations of cells. Wherever possible we apply both optical and electrophysiological techniques in behaving animals that allow us to quantify sensory signaling through neuronal circuits.
Click image to view at full-size
In vivo optical imaging of structure and function of the mammalian olfactory bulb. An anatomical reconstruction of the olfactory bulb (drawn by the Nobel Laureate Ramon y Cajal) highlighting the glomerular organization (red circle) of this brain structure (left). Odour-evoked patterns of glomerular activity resulting from presentation of pineapple and banana.
Click image to view at full-size
In vivo whole-cell recordings and two-photon imaging. Intracellular recordings carried out in anesthetized and awake mice (above). 2 photon image of calcium dye- loaded cells in the cortex of an anaesthetized mouse (below).
Selected publications
- Angelo K, Rancz EA, Pimentel D, Hundahl C, Hannibal J, Fleischmann A, Pichler B and Margrie TW (2012)
A biophysical signature of network affiliation and sensory processing in mitral cells.
Nature 488, 375–378 PubMed abstract - Rancz EA, Franks KM, Schwarz MK, Pichler B, Schaefer AT and Margrie TW (2011)
Transfection via whole-cell recording in vivo: bridging single-cell physiology, genetics and connectomics.
Nature Neuroscience 14, 527-532 PubMed abstract - Chadderton P, Agapiou JP, McAlpine D and Margrie TW (2009)
The synaptic representation of sound source location in auditory cortex.
Journal of Neuroscience 29, 14127-14135 PubMed abstract
Our research themes
Click links to view others working on these themes
© MRC National Institute for Medical Research
The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA
Top of page