The long-term goal of the research in my laboratory is to gain a molecular understanding of the role glial cells (specifically Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes) play in the development and function of the nervous system. Our principal approach is to use techniques that allow for the manipulation of the mouse genome. This approach has allowed us to generate a mouse model of human oligodendrogliomas - which in turn has been useful for the establishment of an oligodendroglial cell line. Moreover, we have developed a transgenic line of animals that experience a severe, late-onset neuromuscular disorder that is likely the result of abnormal Schwann - cell axon interactions. In addition to our transgenic experiments, we have recently initiated studies using the polymerase chain reaction in an effort to isolate genes encoding members of protein families that likely play a role in glial cell function.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Modified Research Career Development Award (K04)
Project #
5K04NS001637-02
Application #
2259637
Study Section
Neurology C Study Section (NEUC)
Project Start
1993-04-01
Project End
1998-03-31
Budget Start
1994-04-01
Budget End
1995-03-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1994
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Department
Internal Medicine/Medicine
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
078861598
City
Chapel Hill
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27599
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Rath, E M; Kelly, D; Bouldin, T W et al. (1995) Impaired peripheral nerve regeneration in a mutant strain of mice (Enr) with a Schwann cell defect. J Neurosci 15:7226-37

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