Klann laboratory is focused on the molecular mechanisms underlying activity-dependent, long-lasting changes in neuronal function, and whether these mechanisms play a role in complex behaviors, including cognition. We use a number of experimental approaches to gain a greater understanding of the molecular mechanisms necessary for maintaining long-lasting changes in synaptic strength and memory ranging from biochemistry, advanced microscopy, electrophysiology and behavioral studies. We are looking at several brain areas including the hippocampus, amygdala, cortex, and striatum with various knockout and transgenic mice to determine how precise genetic manipulations that either activate or abolish specific signaling cascades alter synaptic function and behavior. We are specially interested in studying how molecular signaling and translation affects synaptic plasticity, and behavior in mouse models of developmental disability, autism, aging, and Alzheimer's disease. Main areas of interest are: