Detection of immediate-early gene (IEG) expression in the brain allows not only characterizing the role of these genes in synaptic plasticity associated with formation of memory, but also assessment of dynamic interactions between neural networks across wide regions of the brain underlying behavior and cognition. The proposed experiments use IEG detection techniques to investigate both systems- and molecular/cellular-level responses to learning, and how these changes participate in the formation of long-term memory traces.
In Specific Aim 1, I will assess the time-dependent systems-level reorganization of neocortical cellular representations of an experience, and test whether the hippocampus plays a critical role in this reorganization through the combined use of molecular, electrophysiological, systems, and behavioral approaches.
In Specific Aim 2, I will examine the role of IEG activation and subsequent protein synthesis at various stages of learning [in] long-term memory formation. The findings from these studies combined will help delineate the cellular and cell network alterations critical for transforming learned experiences into stable and long-lasting memories ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32MH073307-03
Application #
7393334
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F02A (20))
Program Officer
Curvey, Mary F
Project Start
2006-04-15
Project End
2009-04-14
Budget Start
2008-04-15
Budget End
2009-04-14
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$55,382
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California Irvine
Department
Other Basic Sciences
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
046705849
City
Irvine
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92697