Analysis of specific neural pathway using double viral vector system

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 25560436
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Brain biometrics
• Research Institution: National Institute for Physiological Sciences
• Principal Investigator: KOBAYASHI Kenta 生理学研究所, 脳機能計測・支援センター, 准教授 (70315662)
• Project Period (FY): 2013-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: Rho GTPase / Rho-kinase / ウイルスベクター / 皮質線条体ニューロン / アポトーシス

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Brain functions are controlled by the complicated neural circuit. In order to understand brain functions, we need to analyze each specific neural pathway, a component of the neural circuit. Rho GTPase signaling pathway via Rho-kinase, one of the major effector molecules of Rho, is becoming increasingly clear to regulate various neuronal functions. In the present study, by using a dual viral vector approach combining a neuron-specific retrograde gene transfer lentiviral vector and an adeno-associated virus vector, we demonstrated that the Rho/Rho-kinase signaling pathway was essential for the survival of cortical neurons forming the corticostriatal pathway.

Free Research Field

分子神経科学