Award details

Identifying mechanisms regulating central nervous system homeostasis

Reference	BBS/E/D/20251969
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Dr Andrew Gill
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors
Institution	University of Edinburgh
Department	The Roslin Institute
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	2,444,582
Status	Completed
Type	Institute Project
Start date	01/04/2012
End date	31/03/2017
Duration	59 months

Abstract

This project focuses on normal molecular and cellular mechanisms by which neurons maintain homeostasis studying them through the opposing paradigms of neuronal function and dysfunction. Developing and maintaining healthy neurons is of crucial importance to humans and animals and we seek to bring novel approaches to the study of non-pathological cognitive deficits resulting from various stressors. This area is central to the BBSRC strategic priority of bioscience underpinning health. However, since CNS function and wellbeing are inextricably linked to the behaviour and welfare of animals, this area is also central to the BBSRC overarching policies on food security and the health and welfare of managed animals. Healthy CNS homeostasis relies on multiple factors, including regulation of neuronal survival, neuronal protection (eg. by neuropeptides and neurosteroids), cross-talk between neuronal networks and inter-cellular communication (e.g. between glia and neurons via chemokines). We have shown that exposure to stress at various times of life, from the prenatal period through to adulthood, can have detrimental effects on the brain, in particular in neuroendocrine systems that maintain homeostasis and brain circuits regulating social behaviour and cognition. In this theme we will investigate the central mechanisms involved and whether early life stress has detrimental effects on cognitive performance and behavioural outcomes. We will investigate how communication between neurons and glia contribute to neuronal health. Within neurons, various molecules have been identified as potential mediators of neuronal protection and we will determine how neuroprotection from these is manifest at molecular levels.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Not funded via Committee
Research Topics	Ageing, Animal Welfare, Neuroscience and Behaviour
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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