Students will learn about all aspects of the synapse, the key structure of communication and information processing in the brain. The lectures will cover cell biological, biophysical, structural and physiological properties of the synapse and
introduce the methods that are being used to study these. The lectures will also address the emerging role of synapses in neurological disorders, termed “synaptopathies” and and the role of astrocytes in controlling neuronal activity by modulating synaptic function. In the practical course students will apply and get to know these methods starting with classical structural, biochemical and molecular approaches over physiological measurements and imaging of synaptic function to exploring the role of synapses for network activity in vivo experiments. The seminars will cover the methodological background and primary literature in the field and help students to effectively read scientific literature.