9600974 Naegele Understanding the cellular and molecular processes that lead to the formation of precise connections in the nervous system is one of the major tasks of neuroscience. This proposal is directed to one key aspect of the general problem: the role of neuronal activity, competition and cell-cell competition in the embryonic brain. Remodelling of the initial connections made in the embryo is an important part of the process by which the functioning brain circuits are refined during development. Few studies have addressed the role of the immune system in these processes. This proposal seeks to explore the role of special cells, the microglia that typically act as scavengers , attacking diseased or damaged cells. The working hypothesis for this proposal is that the microglia and associated immune system molecules may play a part in the refinement of neural connections during development. This research program, as a Career award, will involve undergraduate participation in the laboratory.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Integrative Organismal Systems (IOS)
Application #
9600974
Program Officer
James O. Deshler
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1996-07-15
Budget End
2002-06-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1996
Total Cost
$478,979
Indirect Cost
Name
Wesleyan University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Middletown
State
CT
Country
United States
Zip Code
06459