The nervous system not only functions as a simple information processor that receives, processes and outputs information from the out side, but also has a flexible function that enables it to adapt to changes in the environment and to learn and memory through experience. This brain flexibility can, for example, give rise to a variety of individual personalities and to creative intelligence for solving problems arising in a changing society and environment. Failure of brain function can also be the cause of various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.

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The functional elements underlying this nervous system are synapses, which are responsible for the transmission of information between neurons. Synapses have the flexibility to alter their own transmission efficacy in response to experience and situation, which contributes to the formation of adaptive behavior patterns and thinking abilities in individual animals. Modulation of synaptic function is also frequently observed in neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases.

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Our aim of study is (i) to clarify the operating principles of neural synaptic transmission at the molecular level and (ii) to analyze how these principles are altered during development and pathological conditions. We are also interested in (iii) regeneration and reconstruction of neural synapses and circuits, and (iv) creation of artificial synapses. In addition, we are concurrently developing tools and techniques to study (i) to (iv). 

Research is carried out using diverse techniques. In addition to approaches using molecular biology, biochemistry and electrophysiology, our experimental methods also incorporate advanced techniques such as nanomorphology using super-resolution imaging technology and mathematical modelling simulations.