Development of Sensory maps in the Mammalian neocortex

该项目的长期目标是了解感觉神经元形成的分子机制。 大脑皮层的地图我们目前的重点是测试假设，互惠互动之间 丘脑皮质投射和新皮质负责形成区域特异性和 新皮层的地形感觉图。在具体目标1中，我们将描述时空 丘脑皮质投射与神经元形成的解剖学和分子学关系 这是检验上述假设的关键第一步。在具体目标2中，通过使用条件 基因靶向，我们将分析丘脑皮质投射在建立特定区域的功能， 大脑皮层意义：研究丘脑皮质轴突和神经元之间的相互作用。 由于缺乏可重复的实验系统， 专门操纵其中的任何一个组件。我们将使用条件分子遗传技术， 老鼠来探索这些互动。这项研究将提供深入了解发育的病理生理学， 可能涉及丘脑皮质系统的疾病。此外，更好地了解 大脑回路发育和可塑性中的感觉输入将改善治疗干预， 操纵活动，以鼓励儿童和成人脑损伤的补偿性变化。

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.