Frank Hirth

Research in the lab addresses two fundamental questions: How is genetic information converted into neural circuits and behaviour? How are these processes affected in disorders of the brain? We are focusing on central brain circuits of the vertebrate basal ganglia and the insect central complex that coordinate action selection and decision making underlying voluntary behaviour. In an evolutionary approach, we apply our insights into circuit formation and function to understand their degenerative dysfunction in Parkinson’s and Motor Neurone Disease, as well as in Frontotemporal Dementia. We use human cell and animal models to study the molecular mechanisms underlying TDP-43 and alpha-synuclein dysfunction with a special focus on the so-called prodromal phase of disease, before symptom onset.