NICOP - A novel function of the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) in learning and memory

Abstract

In this proposal we plan to investigate how components of the proteostasis network impact normal neurophysiology in the central nervous system (CNS) and modulate cognitive processes. A thorough understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of memory enhancement by proteostatic factors is crucial to eventually apply this knowledge to innovative methods of cognitive improvement. We plan to combine state-of-the art genetic manipulation, mouse models, electrophysiology and gene expression analysis to uncover the involvement of central UPR components in cognitive processes. In this effort, we will consolidate our ongoing collaboration with Dr. Laurie Glimcher (Dean of Weill Cornell Medical College, NY, USA), who has exceptional experience in mouse models to study ER stress, and Dr. Hemali Phatnani at the New York Genome Center (New York, NY, USA), who will provide us with the infrastructure and the technology to uncover the gene regulatory network governed by the UPR in the brain. We expect that our results will generate substantial interest from the neuroscience research community, leading to high-impact publications and possibly new patentable methods of cognitive improvement applicable to the military field.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Jun 03, 2016
Source ID
N629091612003

Entities

People

  • Claudio Hetz

Organizations

  • Office of Naval Research
  • United States Navy

Tags

Readers

  • Cellular and Molecular Pathways of Apoptosis.
  • Military History
  • Oncology

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology