Real-time quantitative PCR system for the study of mental and neurological disorders

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Research aimed at deciphering brain function is critical for understanding mental and neurological disorders. Since highly complex processes are involved, accurate and efficient ways of monitoring cell functions are needed. In particular, one needs to assess the effects of altered gene expression in various pathological conditions, as well as in response to drugs and infection. The real time PCR technique is the method of choice to study gene expression because it allows working on large numbers of very small samples and it provides very accurate measures. We wish to apply this technique to various aspects of our research programs. Dr. Cermakian studies biological rhythms and their links to various physiological processes like sleep and response to pathogens. Dr. Luheshi studies molecules involved in the response to inflammation in the brain. Dr. Srivastava aims at understanding molecular mechanisms behind schizophrenia and drug addiction. All these research programs will benefit from the requested facility to study critical molecular events like normal and pathological gene expression.