Acquisition of a microscope system for the stereological analysis of brain circuitries

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With NSERC's support, I propose to purchase a research and training instrument (RTI) to conduct state-of-the-art studies on the biological mechanisms underlying the growth and plasticity of nerve cells in the brain. This RTI consists essentially of a microscope connected via a digital camera to a computer equipped with newly developed softwares which allow to obtain unbiased estimates of microscopic elements such as cells and their processes. With this system, we will investigate the roles played by growth factors called "neuregulins" in the development and plasticity of nerve cell processes known as dendrites in the immature and adult cerebral cortex. In brief, the acquisition of this RTI will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms behind nerve cell growth and adaptation in brain circuitries.