UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE
Grant: $222,076 - National Institutes of Health - Aug. 20, 2009
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Award Description: Molecular Determinants of Mossy Fiber Presynaptic Channelopathies in Epilepsy. Description: This project will provide critical information on the mechanisms leading to different forms of epilepsy, a devastating and very common neurological disorder. This project seeks to tackle problems related to the neurotransmitter release machinery within the scope of parent grant that will lead to a better understanding and novel insights on the presynaptic function in epilepsy with ample implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In addition, through this supplement, new jobs will be created for graduate level students and the pace of the scientific research will be accelerated.
Project Description: The overall purpose is to integrate innovative approaches to solve critical questions and obtain novel data related to the parent grant specific aims (see above). TO accomplish this general goal we propose to adopt two-photon laser scanning confocal microscopy and electron microscopy techniques to address fundamental questions (specific aims of parent grants) of the presynaptic function is epilepsy. Description of the supplement's purpose: The supplement will accelerate the development of specific aim 2 using a edge-cutting imaging technology and reformulated paradigms. In addition, this supplement will support and sustain a promising collaborative effort with an expert in the field of advanced imaging of the presynaptic function and plasticity namely Dr. Stanton (Consultant) using in parallel two-photon laser scanning confocal microscopy in the activities related to specific aim 2. Moreover, we will correlate functional data with ultra-structural changes by complement electron microscopy analysis. This collaboration, proposed improvements of current imaging setup, and addition of research personnel at PI’s laboratory will considerably enhance the capabilities to perform higher resolution functional imaging of presynaptic terminals in brain slices obtained from control versus epileptic rats for accomplishing specific aim 2. The introduction of more sophisticated and capable imaging techniques, optimized protocols and additional expertise for tackling problems related to process of neurotransmitter release will certainly lead to a better understanding on the presynaptic mechanisms affected during the course of epilepsy with ample implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Jobs Summary: N/A (Total jobs reported: 0)
Project Status: Less Than 50% Completed
This award's data was last updated on Aug. 20, 2009. Help expand these official descriptions using the wiki below.
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