Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is a neuronal kinase that has been implicated in many diverse processes in the central nervous system. Cdk5 has been shownto regulate dopamine signaling in the neostriatum and is a molecular target of chronic cocaine exposure. We intend to investigate the role Cdk5 plays in glutamtatergic neurotransmission in the ventral striatum (nucleus accumbens). Of particular interest is the role of Cdk5 in dopamine signaling, the main target of drugs of abuse. Using Cre/loxP technology, a conditional cdk5 knockout mouse has been generated to allow temporal control of tissue-specific knockout of Cdk5. The effect of striatal loss of Cdk5 on dopamine signaling pathwaywill be assessed using a pharmacological approach combined with quantitative immunoblotting. The electrpphysiological properties of striatal neurons will be defined following loss of Cdk5. These studies will be conducted following chronic cocaine exposure, in order to better define the role of Cdk5 in the neostriatum.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31DA020199-03
Application #
7338000
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F08 (29))
Program Officer
Babecki, Beth
Project Start
2005-10-01
Project End
2008-09-30
Budget Start
2007-10-01
Budget End
2008-09-30
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$31,386
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Texas Sw Medical Center Dallas
Department
Genetics
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
800771545
City
Dallas
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
75390
Benavides, David R; Quinn, Jennifer J; Zhong, Ping et al. (2007) Cdk5 modulates cocaine reward, motivation, and striatal neuron excitability. J Neurosci 27:12967-76