The proposed research will investigate how activation of the mammalian central noradrenergic system contributes to mnemonic activities.
The specific aims of the present fellowship will examine how the noradrenergic cells of the monkey nucleus locus coeruleus (LC) contribute to performance in a working memory task. Cynomolgus monkeys will be implanted with guide cannula designed for electrophysiological recordings and microinfusion. Initial studies will determine how LC neuronal discharge differs during the different components of a delayed response memory task known to be sensitive to manipulations of noradrenergic receptor activity. Subsequent experiments will examine if electrical or chemical stimulation of the LC or its excitatory afferent the nucleus paragigantocellularis (PGi) can enhance working memory performance. Findings from these studies may offer new insight into the processes that lead to proper memory formation.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32MH012817-02
Application #
6391819
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-IFCN-7 (01))
Program Officer
Goldschmidts, Walter L
Project Start
2001-09-01
Project End
Budget Start
2001-09-01
Budget End
2002-08-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2001
Total Cost
$34,832
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Pennsylvania
Department
Psychiatry
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
042250712
City
Philadelphia
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
19104