脑内大多数神经元均生长了一根细小的初级纤毛，其上富集了多种重要的膜受体、离子通道和信号蛋白。然而纤毛在神经元上发挥的功能却至今是一个谜。本项目将在前期对小鼠脑内神经元的初级纤毛进行细致的形态学观察基础上，利用小鼠遗传学方法特异性破坏前脑锥体神经元的初级纤毛，研究初级纤毛对神经元的形态、电生理特性及动物行为的影响，并阐述初级纤毛影响神经活动的信号机理。基于前期研究结果，将重点分析神经元初级纤毛是否参与到了多巴胺信号通路的调控。此项目的顺利实施将拓展我们对脑内初级纤毛功能的认识，并助于揭示或明确初级纤毛在精神紊乱中的作用及病理机制。

Most neurons in the brain have a single primary cilium, which is a tiny cell surface protrusion with the accumulation of a group of important receptors, ion channels, and signaling molecules. However, till now the role of neuronal cilia remains a mystery. Based on our previous analysis of the morphology and distribution of cilia in mouse brain, we will take advantage of mouse genetics technology to specifically ablate the cilium of pyramidal neurons of the forebrain, respectively, and clarify its effect on the morphology and electrophysiological properties of neurons, and its impact on animal behavior. We will further address how cilia regulate neuronal activity and brain function. Based on our preliminary findings, the mechanism research will be focused on whether and how the dopamine signal transduction is modulated by primary cilia of neurons. The completion of this project will significantly advance the current understanding of cilia function in the brain. Findings from this line of study will also be instrumental for developing innovative technologies for the diagnosis and therapy of cilium-related psychiatric disorders in the future.