The goal of this proposal is to provide new technical skills and rigorous academic training to launch the principle investigator's independent research career. The long-term goal is to understand molecular mechanisms modulating sympathetic nervous system (SNS) function, leading to new treatments for pathophysiological SNS activity. In addition, investigations into genetic causes of SNS dysfunction (dysautonomia) will be initiated. The SNS functions as an integrative peripheral nervous system to regulate vital organ function, in part by release of catecholamines (CA). Disease states as varied as Parkinson's disease and sepsis can lead to dysfunction of the SNS and patient morbidity. Feedback modulation of CA release occurs by activation of alpha2A and alpha2C adrenergic receptors (ARs) on sympathetic neurons. Neuropharmacological differences between these two autoreceptors are not completely known, thus limiting development of specific drugs for disease treatment. The proposal will test the hypothesis that protein motifs within alpha2A and C ARs and their interacting proteins are responsible for differential trafficking in neurons, leading to distinct functional roles as modulators of CA release.
The Specific Aims of this proposal include 1) delineation of alpha2A and C AR motifs and their interacting proteins, 2) single cell amperometric analysis of alpha2A and C AR modulation of CA release, and 3) investigation of known alpha2A and C AR genetic variants. Knowledge gained in this system should be applicable to other neuromodulator systems, such as opiate and cannabinoid receptors. This proposal describes a 5-year training program to initiate an investigation into the SNS. The principal investigator has completed residency and fellowship training in Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, as well as a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and post-doctoral studies in Germany. This proposal will assist his training to pursue a career as an independent investigator on the Clinician Scientist track at Stanford University, in part by reducing his clinical patient care commitment to 20-25%. The proposal will be guided by Dr. Brian Kobilka, a leading expert in adrenergic receptor biochemistry and physiology, who has trained several post-doctoral fellows and clinician scientists. An Advisory Committee of pharmacologists and neuroscientists will provide scientific and career advice, and training in the techniques of amperometry and SNS cell culture required for this project's success. ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Clinical Investigator Award (CIA) (K08)
Project #
5K08NS050654-02
Application #
7178541
Study Section
NST-2 Subcommittee (NST)
Program Officer
Stewart, Randall R
Project Start
2006-03-01
Project End
2011-02-28
Budget Start
2007-03-01
Budget End
2008-02-29
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2007
Total Cost
$173,799
Indirect Cost
Name
Stanford University
Department
Anesthesiology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
009214214
City
Stanford
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94305
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Hurt, Carl M; Björk, Susann; Ho, Vincent K et al. (2014) REEP1 and REEP2 proteins are preferentially expressed in neuronal and neuronal-like exocytotic tissues. Brain Res 1545:12-22
Björk, Susann; Hurt, Carl M; Ho, Vincent K et al. (2013) REEPs are membrane shaping adapter proteins that modulate specific g protein-coupled receptor trafficking by affecting ER cargo capacity. PLoS One 8:e76366
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