Prof. D.P. Wolfer

Research topics and projects:

The biological basis of cognitive function in the normal and diseased brain is the topic of our research. We mainly use mice as animal models and develop new, more efficient and ethologically relevant approaches to analyze their cognitive performance. Behavioral studies are combined with histological visualization of neuronal activity and plasticity, stereotactic lesions, neuropharmacology, and manipulation of gene expression in the brain (in collaboration with other labs). We also study the influence of normal genetic variation, environment and life style (in particular physical activity) on cognitive function and the underlying brain circuitry.

Assessing cognitive behavior of normal and transgenic mice

We collaborate with other laboratories in order to obtain a variety of mouse models of human diseases that affect cognitive function (e.g. dementia, mental retardation) as well as mouse lines which carry mutations of genes thought to be relevant to cognitive function (e.g. RAS-GRF, TrkB, CREB, tPA, neurotrypsin, neuroserpin, Arg3.1). The mice are screened using a comprehensive battery of standardized behavioral tests and the results are incorporated into a data base to permit meta-analysis. Comparison of phenotypic changes across different mouse models and behavioral tests permits better definition of different domains of cognitive function in the mouse and makes the identification of supporting brain systems and cellular processes more reliable.

IntelliMaze - Mouse behavior analyzed in the home cage

In the context of the FP6 project IntelliMaze - High-throughput, fully automated and cost-effective behavioral phenotyping of normal, clinical and genetic mouse models, we develop and validate new approaches to behavioral and cognitive phenotyping of normal and genetically modified mice in a fully automated social home cage environment that eliminates most of the stressful experiences associated with conventional animal experimentation. To achieve this goal, we join forces with three other academic institutions and three SMEs.

Large scale spatial cognition in the homing pigeon

In order to study spatial cognition on a large scale and without the limitations of the laboratory environment, we join forces with the Division of Neuroanatomy and Behavior at the Institute of Anatomy and investigate the homing behavior of pigeons. This project aims at elucidating the pathways of freely moving animals in their natural environment, and analyzing electrophysiological correlates of path finding. The homing paths of pigeons flying alone or in groups are recorded using micro GPS loggers. Using concurrent EEG recording in the flying bird, we try to identify brain structures changing activity during flight.