This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Objectives: The scientific exploration of natural products for the development of psychotropic therapies is an understudied area of research. The In Vitro Pharmacology Core will provide several functions related to understanding the mechanisms of actions of psychoactive natural products that can lead to the development of new therapies. Specifically, Core C will provide the ability in house to screen compounds for biological activity and determine the site(s) as well as mechanism(s) of action. These core functions are dependent on the use of state of the art technologies as well as time-tested laboratory methodologies. Using multi-label reader technologies, the core will be able to rapidly assess compounds and extracts held in the repositories at the University of Mississippi for specific receptor activities. Mechanistic studies into the actions of lead compounds will be assessed using cellular electrophysiology and imaging techniques. Receptor affinity determinations and kinetic analyses will round out Core C's repertoire of techniques. Table 1 presents an overview of the assays that are to be run routinely.
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