Obiettivo
The development of neural circuitry is a vastly complex process, and the role of many of its components - notably the control of neuronal morphology, the formation of specific synaptic connections as well as the exquisite localisation of key synaptic proteins - is still very poorly understood. In this frame the present project aims to reach a more comprehensive understanding of cortical networking during development and in particular of genes and their products governing the complex molecular mechanisms driving synaptic structuring and organisation during development of cortical networks and circuitries. This project will integrate the information about the role of different candidate genes/proteins in synaptic formation, remodelling and function and it will capitalise on results obtained in in vitro systems and translate them to clinic al application. The final aim is to identify key steps responsible for defect of development associated to mental retardation. Since intellectual performances are directly related to brain development and plasticity of excitatory synapses and these are generally located in cortical neurons, the project will focus primarily on these structures. The proteins that will be identified as important factors in the development of functional synapses will then be studied for their implications in the development of synaptic dysfunctions using different animal genetic models of mental retardation. Thus the project will: i) characterise gene products responsible for synapse formation and function ii) assess the role of mutation/deletion of selected genes in synaptic function in in vitro systems and in intact organisms iii) analyse the impact of mutations of scaffolds in driving mental retardation.
Campo scientifico
Argomento(i)
Invito a presentare proposte
FP6-2003-LIFESCIHEALTH-I
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