Objective
A hallmark of the nervous system is its rich cell-type diversity, its intricate connectivity and its coordinated patterns of activity. Behavior largely is an emergent property of this complexity. Thus, to understand behavior, we must define neurons’ molecular, cellular and functional properties. This task has proven especially challenging for motor circuits with their readily apparent output in motor activity but astonishingly heterogeneous populations of neurons. To parse this complexity, I propose a novel approach harnessing the unique behavioral switch during Xenopus frog metamorphosis. The metamorphic transition from simple swimming to more complex, coordinated limb movement offers an ideal opportunity to study the expansion and diversification of two motor circuits in one organism. Here, I aim to define the molecular, functional and behavioral features of swim2limb circuit complexification during frog metamorphosis— a crucial step in developing this new model (Aim 1: OBSERVE). Next, I will identify the developmental mechanisms that drive the profound change in circuit composition and output, and evaluate the contribution of increasing cellular heterogeneity to pre- and post-metamorphic neuron activity and behavior (Aim 2: PERTURB). Finally, to define the conserved and divergent circuit features for swimming and walking across evolution, I will expand to a cross-species approach comparing frogs/mice and fish/tadpoles (Aim 3: COMPARE). Such intra- and inter- species approaches will deepen our understanding of the origin of tetrapod motor complexity and its relationship to motor circuit composition and output. My work will be the first comprehensive study of the genetics, activity, and behavior of a swim-to-limb transition in a single organism. It will draw bridges between studies of motor control from different species and generate hypotheses and knowledge for understanding motor circuit development, function, and dysfunction all the way to a clinical setting.
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2021-STG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
3400 Klosterneuburg
Austria
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.