Research Grant
[Cite as https://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/302003]Researchers: Dr Catherine Leamey (Principal investigator)
Brief description The mammalian brain consists of many discrete areas which perform specific functions. Each area has specific sets of connections with other brain areas. These sets of connections underlie the ability of the brain to execute functions critical to our daily lives, such as sight, hearing, touch and movement, as well as more complex functions such as memory, motivation and reasoning. We currently know little about how the sets of connections which underlie these functions are formed. The aim of this project is to understand how some of the connections between the cortex and other brain areas are formed during development. To do this the project will combine modern molecular techniques with neuroanatomy to identify molecules that are expressed by specific populations of neurons during critical developmental stages. These molecules will then be misexpressed in order to determine whether they are important for the development of appropriate connectivity in the brain. A knowledge of the molecules that regulate the development of neuronal pathways is critical to understanding brain development. In the long term, it will also lead to the development of therapies for cases when the brain is damaged or does not develop appropriately due to disease or injury.
Funding Amount $AUD 289,250.00
Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants
Notes New Investigator Grant
- nhmrc : 302003
- PURL : https://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/302003