Award details

Direct optical control of a neural network pacemaker using genetically ChARGed neurones

Reference	S20074
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor Hugh Piggins
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors	Dr Owen Jones, Dr Carl Meyer-Spasche
Institution	The University of Manchester
Department	Life Sciences
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	135,589
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	01/05/2004
End date	30/04/2006
Duration	24 months

Abstract

The control of neural networks is integral to defining brain behaviour and correcting aberrant activity in diseased neurones. Unfortunately, a major hurdle has been the inability to sustain network activity without appropriate (e.g. sensory) input, especially in vitro. However, the emergence of a genetic system (pChARGe) which mediates light-induced electrical activity in transfected neurones, suggests a way to bypass normal sensory input, allowing replication in vitro, and control of network activity seen in vivo. To test this hypothesis we aim to: a) Efficiently express pChARGe in neurones using lentiviruses; b) Define the ability of pChARGed neurones to control network activity in a model oscillator, the hypothalamic SCN circadian clock.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Animal Sciences (AS)
Research Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
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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