The Retina in 3D: Unraveling Retinal Circuitry with Connectomics

Jordan M. Renna, Ph.D., and Laurence Johnson, Ph.D. student

Project description:

The retina is a key component of the central nervous system. This thin layer of neural tissue at the back of the eye is made up of complex networks of interconnected neurons that process visual information before it is sent to the brain. The Renna lab’s goal is to uncover the synaptic structures and circuits that make this highly specialized processing possible.

To do this, we use serial block-face electron microscopy (SBEM), a cutting-edge imaging technique that allows us to visualize retinal tissue at nanometer resolution. In SBEM, blocks of tissue are repeatedly imaged and sectioned in ultra-thin layers, producing thousands of high-resolution images. These images are compiled into a 3D dataset, giving us the ability to reconstruct neurons, identify synapses, and map neural circuits in extraordinary detail.

This work is based in connectomics, the study of mapping neural structures. By tracing neurons and understanding their connection, we can broaden our understanding of how to retina’s circuitry supports vision.

This is a computer-based research project, not a wet lab. Students will work with SBEM datasets to trace neurons, locate synapses, and help disentangle the wiring of retinal circuits. Work can be done in the lab, or remotely. Due to the independent nature of this project, students should be self-motivated, independent, and detail oriented.

Opportunities for Students:

• Gain experience using neuron tracing software
• Learn how to identify neuroanatomical structures and trace cells and circuits
• Attend weekly lab meetings
• Learn more about the field of neuroscience and how the visual system functions

Required Experience

No previous lab experience is required. We will teach you everything you need to know!

Time Commitment

We expect students to dedicate at least 9 hours a week to this project.