Development of Sensory maps in the Mammalian neocortex

这个项目的长期目标是了解感官形成的分子机制。 大脑皮层的地图。我们目前的重点是检验这样一个假设，即 丘脑皮质投射和新皮质负责区域特异性和 大脑皮层的地形图感觉图。在具体目标1中，我们将刻画时空 丘脑皮质投射与神经节细胞形成的关系 这是检验上述假设的关键第一步。在具体目标2中，使用条件 基因打靶，我们将分析丘脑皮质投射在建立特定区域特征中的作用。 大脑皮层。意义：研究丘脑皮质轴突与大脑皮质的相互作用 由于缺乏可重现的实验系统，新皮质的分化受到限制 具体操作两个组件中的任何一个。我们将使用有条件的分子遗传学技术 鼠标来探索这些交互作用。这项研究将为深入了解发育迟缓的病理生理学机制提供帮助。 可能累及丘脑皮质系统的疾病。此外，更好地理解 在大脑回路的发育和可塑性中的感觉输入将改善治疗干预 操控活动以鼓励患有脑损伤的儿童和成人的代偿性改变。

The long-term goal of this project is to understand the molecular mechanisms for the formation of sensory maps in the cerebral cortex. Our current focus is to test the hypothesis that reciprocal interactions between the thalamocortical projections and the neocortex are responsible for the formation of area-specific and topographic sensory maps in the neocortex. In Specific aim 1, we will characterize the spatiotemporal relationship between the thalamocortical projections and the formation of anatomically and molecularly distinct areas, which is a critical first step to test the above hypothesis. In Specific aim 2, by using conditional gene targeting, we will analyze the roles of thalamocortical projections in establishing area-specific features o the neocortex. SIGNIFICANCE:Studies of the interactions between the thalamocortical axons and the differentiating neocortex have been limited because of the lack of reproducible experimental systems to specifically manipulate either of the components. We will use conditional molecular genetic techniques of the mouse to explore these interactions. This study will provide insight into the pathophysiology of developmental disorders that may involve the thalamocortical system. In addition, a better understanding of the roles of sensory inputs in the development and plasticity of brain circuitry will improve therapeutic interventions to¿ manipulate activity to encourage compensatory changes in both children and adults with brain damage.