The role of SNAP-25 in attentional processes

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In the central nervous system, brain cells (neurons) communicate with each other by means of release of chemical neurotransmitters. This occurs mainly at specialized parts of the neuron, known as "synapses". The process of neurotransmission requires a unique set of molecules on either side of the synapse; one of the three core proteins needed for release of neurotransmitter is SNAP-25. The molecular mechanism that enables SNAP-25 to regulate neurotransmission is well described in cell culture work, but the functional significance of the protein in intact organisms is not well understood. The current research project will examine how SNAP-25 plays a role in the physiology of monoamine neurons in the rat brain. The monoamine neurons include the serotonergic, dopaminergic and noradrenergic projections to the forebrain. This class of neurons is essential for most forms of preconscious and conscious attentional processing. In the first phase of the project, we will use microscopy and specialized lesion techniques to confirm that SNAP-25 is present in the