Synapses throughout the human brain are closely associated with glia. Yet, the role of glia in the development and maintenance of synapses has not been thoroughly investigated. Preliminary data from Dr. Barres' laboratory indicate that synapses formed in the absence of glia in vitro have low efficacy. Glial cells can strongly enhance the efficacy of these synapses. We propose to further characterize how glial cells enhance synaptic efficacy. In particular, we will test the hypothesis that glia enhance synaptic efficacy by increasing the probability of presynaptic transmitter release. We will investigate how glial cells regulate synaptic efficacy. a) Do glial cells regulate transmitter synthesis? b) Do glial cells regulate transmitter release? c) Is electrical activity required for the glial enhancement of synaptic efficacy? d) Do glial cells enhance presynaptic calcium currents? e) Do glial cells upregulate expression of one or more presynaptic proteins.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32NS010784-02
Application #
6186722
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-MDCN-1 (02))
Program Officer
Chiu, Arlene Y
Project Start
2000-06-01
Project End
Budget Start
2000-06-01
Budget End
2001-05-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$32,416
Indirect Cost
Name
Stanford University
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
800771545
City
Stanford
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94305