Decoding synaptic plasticity mechanisms using viral vector strategies (copy)
The overriding goal of this brain research is to understand how memories are formed and stored. The main mechanism for altering transfer of information between nerve cells is synaptic plasticity.
Our focus in the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and the role of the protein Arc - a key player in memory formation.
Mice and rats will be used for this work. Distress to the rodents is expected to be minimal as procedures are in place to monitor and ensure the health and well-being of the animals. The potential societal benefit is substantial, given the importance of memory for cognition and mental health, particularly in the aged population. The maximum number of animals to be used is 324 for mice and 330 for rats. The number of animals used is kept to a minimum by 1) expertise in methodology at all levels the project, 2) well-planned experimental design to address a specific hypothesis, 3) complementary use of cell lines (not animals) and well ans in vitro primary neuronal cultures, that has allowed to establish basic mechanisms and novel tools that can now be tested in animals.
Our focus in the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and the role of the protein Arc - a key player in memory formation.
Mice and rats will be used for this work. Distress to the rodents is expected to be minimal as procedures are in place to monitor and ensure the health and well-being of the animals. The potential societal benefit is substantial, given the importance of memory for cognition and mental health, particularly in the aged population. The maximum number of animals to be used is 324 for mice and 330 for rats. The number of animals used is kept to a minimum by 1) expertise in methodology at all levels the project, 2) well-planned experimental design to address a specific hypothesis, 3) complementary use of cell lines (not animals) and well ans in vitro primary neuronal cultures, that has allowed to establish basic mechanisms and novel tools that can now be tested in animals.