Objetivo
Dynamic changes in synaptic strength are now thought to be the cellular mechanisms responsible for information storage in the nervous system. The formation of long-term memory and the expression of long term synaptic plasticity require the activation of gene transcription and protein synthesis de novo. In this context the CREB family of transcription factors appears to be one of the core components in the molecular switch that converts short- to long-term memory.
The aim of this project is to study the role of the CREB family of transcription factors in the acquisition and consolidation of memories. We will use different lines of transgenic mice related with the CREB transcription factors such as VP16-CREB (a constitutively active CREB variant), A-CREB (a dominant negative CREB mutant), VP16-SRF (a constitutively active SRF variant) and CBP (CREB co-activator) to study memory formation and consolidation. As a member of a multidisciplinary group I will carry out electrophysiological studies to characterized synaptic plasticity phenomena in the hippocampus and amygdala, two structures that are related with spatial and fear conditioned memories respectively.
These data together with behavioural experiments will allow us to understand the molecular processes of learning and memory. The results of this project may help to find treatments for the increasing number of neuro-degenerative diseases in the European countries as a consequence of the ageing population.
Ámbito científico
Convocatoria de propuestas
FP6-2002-MOBILITY-12
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