Half Day Workshop on Neuron and Epigenetics

Half Day Workshop | March 3, 2025

On March 3, 2025, the Neurons and Epigenetics Workshop at SCAN, IIT Bombay brought together top neuroscientists to discuss ground-breaking research on memory, sleep, and gene regulation. The event featured insightful talks from renowned experts, sparking dynamic discussions and new perspectives on how neural and epigenetic mechanisms shape brain function.

Talk by Professor Sourav Banerjee

Talk Title: Long Non-Coding RNAs in Regulation of Memory

Prof. Sourav Banerjee’s talk explored the role of long non-coding RNAs (lnc RNAs) in memory formation and synaptic plasticity. He discussed how synapse-enriched lnc RNAs in the hippocampus regulate localized translation, a process essential for memory storage. His research highlighted the molecular mechanisms through which these RNAs act as decoys to control protein synthesis at synapses, influencing cognitive function. He also explained how knocking down Syn LAMP, a synaptic lncRNA, impaired fear memory and how sleep deprivation altered the expression of these RNAs, impacting ATP metabolism. Additionally, he shared findings on Cerox 1, demonstrating that its overexpression could counteract memory deficits caused by sleep deprivation.

Talk by Professor Ted Abel

Talk Title: The Role of Sleep in Memory Storage

Prof. Ted Abel’s session focused on the critical role of sleep in memory consolidation and how sleep deprivation disrupts key molecular processes. He explained how multiple waves of PKA activity and CREB phosphorylation contribute to memory storage and described how hippocampal reactivation during sleep is crucial for processing memories. His research demonstrated that targeted memory reactivation during sleep enhances retention, whereas sleep deprivation impairs this process by altering transcription and translation. Using spatial transcriptomics, his team mapped region-specific gene expression changes after sleep loss, providing insights into the molecular impact of sleep deprivation on brain function. He also discussed ongoing research into chronic
sleep restriction and its effects on neurodegenerative disorders.

Talk by Professor Ranjith Padinhateeri

Talk Title: Chromatin Organization and Gene Regulation

Prof. Ranjith Padinhateeri presented computational and polymer-based models to examine the 3D organization of chromatin and its role in gene regulation. He explained how chromatin domains form across different cell types and discussed the significance of topologically associated domains (TADs) in genome organization. His research demonstrated correlations between epigenetic modifications and chromatin architecture and examined how loop extrusion dynamics influence gene expression. He also explored the mechanics of DNA strand breaks and their role in chromatin reorganization, shedding light on the time scales involved in chromatin looping and structural changes.