Mark Dombrovski

My research investigates the molecular determinants of precise brain wiring, focusing on how neurons identify their exact synaptic partners and avoid incorrect ones - a remarkable phenomenon known as “synaptic specificity.” During development, neurons are exposed to thousands or even millions of potential alternative partners, yet they reliably form highly specific and correct connections. Understanding how this fidelity is achieved remains one of the central questions in neuroscience. I use Drosophila (fruit fly) visual system as a model, taking advantage of whole-brain EM connectomics, powerful molecular genetics, and the ability to combine transcriptomic, imaging, and functional approaches. By bringing these tools together, I aim to uncover general principles of neural circuit assembly that link the genetic and molecular building blocks of the brain to behavior.