Neurons in many central nervous system (CNS) regions undergo a period of activity-dependent development that gives rise to morphological and electrophysiological properties that persist for the life of the animal. Using a monoclonal antibody directed against a unique cell surface proteoglycan, we have provided molecular evidence that hamster motor neurons exhibit activity-dependent development during a critical period in early postnatal life. Moreover, motor neuron development, like visual system development, is influenced by NMDA receptor activation. These studies show that activity-dependent development is reflected in the expression of specific molecules and that NMDA receptor mediated events can be studied quantitatively in motor neurons. Here we propose to: (1) investigate the role of target (muscle) function in activity-dependent development; (2) examine the role of motor neuron activity in the maturation of synaptic ultrastructure; (3) examine in adults the molecular and morphological consequences of neonatal NMDA receptor blockade; and (4) examine the developmental regulation of spinal cord NMDA receptor density and distribution. The immediate goal of these studies is an anatomic and molecular description of activity-dependent development at the single cell level. The long range goal is an understanding of the developmental events that regulate or limit the plasticity of the CNS.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
1R01NS029837-01A2
Application #
3416743
Study Section
Neurology B Subcommittee 2 (NEUB)
Project Start
1993-02-01
Project End
1996-01-31
Budget Start
1993-02-01
Budget End
1994-01-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1993
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Yale University
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
082359691
City
New Haven
State
CT
Country
United States
Zip Code
06520
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