A01

AFM計測-分子マッピング統合解析：ECMが弾性を介して神経可塑性を制御する機構の解明
Integrated Analysis of AFM Measurements and Molecular Mapping: Elucidating How ECM Regulates Neural Plasticity via Elasticity

脳内の細胞外基質(ECM)は，神経回路の形成，神経可塑性の制御，損傷した中枢神経の修復などに関与する．近年，ECMが組織の弾性を通じて神経細胞の動態を制御し，脳機能の発現や維持に重要であると注目されている．しかし，脳内のECMと弾性の空間分布，これらが神経細胞の動態を制御する機構は未だ解明されていない．本研究では，脳内の弾性を１細胞レベルで網羅的に計測してオミクス情報と統合できる，新規の原子間力顕微鏡(AFM)技術を開発する．さらに，この技術を用いて，ECMに制御される脳組織の弾性がシナプスの安定化や幹細胞の維持などの神経細胞動態を制御する機構を明らかにする．この研究により，ECMが脳機能の発現や維持に果たす役割を理解できる．

The extracellular matrix (ECM) in the brain is involved in neural circuit formation, the regulation of neural plasticity, and the repair of injured central nervous tissue. In recent years, growing attention has focused on the idea that the ECM regulates neuronal dynamics through tissue elasticity and thereby plays an important role in the emergence and maintenance of brain function. However, the spatial distributions of ECM and elasticity in the brain, as well as the mechanisms by which they regulate neuronal dynamics, remain unclear. In this study, we will develop a novel atomic force microscopy (AFM) technology that enables comprehensive measurement of brain elasticity at single-cell resolution and its integration with omics data. Using this technology, we will further elucidate the mechanisms by which ECM-regulated brain tissue elasticity controls neuronal dynamics, including synaptic stabilization and stem cell maintenance. This research will advance our understanding of the role of the ECM in the emergence and maintenance of brain function.