Silm Lab
The Silm Lab focuses on the regulation of neurotransmitter release at the presynaptic compartment, critical for information processing in brain circuits. While we understand the general mechanism ensuring activity-dependent release of neurotransmitters, it is unclear to what extent it differs across neuronal populations. We use various live imaging strategies and cell-type-specific proteomics approaches to study molecular diversity in presynaptic biology and its implications for information relay and selective vulnerability during aging.
Personal Statement
In addition to well-studied systems relying on synaptic glutamate and GABA, we focus on mechanisms regulating neuromodulator release and neurons coreleasing multiple transmitters. Our goal is to investigate the diversity of presynaptic composition across neuronal populations, linking it to neurotransmitter release properties and protein homeostasis. This work aims to advance our understanding of information relay mechanisms and reveal sources of selective vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases."
Katlin Silm, PhD
Breakthrough Research
- Diversity of neurotransmitter release machinery across neuronal populations
- Role and regulation of neurotransmitter corelease
- Coupling of neuronal activity and protein homeostasis
- Presynaptic sources of selective neuronal vulnerability in neurodegeneration
Laboratory Team
Learn more about the scientists, faculty members, investigators and other healthcare professionals of the Silm Lab, whose dedicated efforts lead to groundbreaking discoveries.
Job Opportunities
We are actively recruiting students and postdocs to be our colleagues and expand lab knowledge and expertise to make important breakthroughs.
Collaborations
The Silm Lab collaborates with a wide range of investigators within Cedars-Sinai and institutions around the world.