Periodic Reporting for period 1 - PIANISM (Prefrontal Cortex Circuit Dynamics underlying Working Memory and its Serotonin Modulation)
Periodo di rendicontazione: 2020-08-01 al 2022-07-31
We conducted high-density neural recordings during the task, focusing on the SC, and categorising its sensory neurons. Our results indicate that the positioning of visual, auditory and multi-sensory neurons corresponds with the layered organisation of the SC and their responses are influenced by the type of stimulus and its prominence. We examined the serotonergic projections from the dorsal raphe nucelus to the SC. Our findings demonstrate that the density of projections carries in different regions of the SC and across different layers. Additionally, we validated the expression of multiple 5-HT receptors in glutamatergic and GABAergic cells. We identified likely critical receptors in the SC based on their expression pattern. Furthermore, we found that the selective microinjections of specific 5-HT antagonists in the layer-specific regions of the SC during the task significantly impacted performance, thus confirming the relevance of serotonergic modulation in the SC. We created specialised optogenetic tools, which can be controlled with light, to mimic specific 5-HTRs. These tools will allow us to modulate these receptors during our behavioural task precisely. Additionally, we have established an advanced in vivo imaging method that enables us to visualise cellular activity and 5-HT release during the task. Our novel findings have already been presented on multiple posters during institutional retreats and at a public symposium at the Francis Crick Institute, informing a broad audience beyond the neuroscience community. Furthermore, our preliminary data was of such high impact that we could secure funding for an MRC Neuroscience and Mental Health grant, where I will continue my investigation of the role of serotonin in spatial attention as a researcher co-investigator.