The brain is undoubtedly the most complex organ in our body
and analysis of its function requires a large variety of specialisms, such as
behavioural analysis, electrophysiological analysis, cellular, molecular and
biochemical techniques. While our research group traditionally focussed on behaviour,
we have also often included immunohistochemical techniques to assess brain
activity and cellular functioning.
In recent years, mainly through the collaboration with Dr
Darren Day from the School of Biological Sciences, we have expanded our portfolio
to include a variety of additional techniques, such as quantitative PCR,
Western blot and primary cell cultures. Recently we also implemented the RNAscope
technique. This technique allows us to assess mRNA and proteins within the same
brain section with high sensitivity and accuracy.
Several of our projects focus around further developing and
assessing the value of specific methodologies.