An integrated detection platform for the study of neuroimmune interactions, neuroendocrine pathways and neurodevelopment

该申请旨在为多功能微孔板检测平台申请资金。该设备将用于研究对神经系统重要的各种分子的水平，并探测各种脑细胞和区域的功能。我们希望将这些方法应用于我们研究的各个方面，特别是每个申请人的NSERC研究计划。旨在破译大脑功能以及大脑与其他生理系统（例如免疫和内分泌系统）之间的串扰的研究对于理解精神和神经系统疾病至关重要，但也有助于理解大脑与其他生理系统的整合机制。由于涉及高度复杂的过程，因此需要准确和有效的方法来监测细胞功能。特别是，人们需要评估在各种正常和病理条件下以及对药物和感染的反应中不同组织或体液中的基因和蛋白质表达。使用本申请中要求的微孔板检测平台进行的研究将导致更好地了解大脑如何工作，涉及生物计时，炎症，代谢，大脑发育和精神疾病的机制。获得该设备的另一个好处是改善研究生和博士后研究员的培训：使用所要求的平台的先进和强大的技术将构成神经科学多样化培训的重要组成部分。

This application is to request funding for a versatile microplate detection platform. This equipment will be used to study the levels of various molecules important for the nervous system and to probe the function of various brain cells and regions. We wish to apply these approaches to various aspects of our research, in particular the NSERC research programs of each of the applicants. Research aimed at deciphering brain function, and crosstalk between the brain and other physiological systems (e.g. the immune and endocrine systems), is critical for understanding mental and neurological disorders, but also to apprehend the integrated mechanisms of the brain in relation with other physiological systems. Since highly complex processes are involved, accurate and efficient ways of monitoring cell functions are needed. In particular, one needs to assess gene and protein expression in different tissues or body fluids under various normal and pathological conditions, as well as in response to drugs and infection. The research performed using the microplate detection platform requested in this application will lead to a better understanding of how brain works, with respect to biological timing, inflammation, metabolism, brain development, and mechanisms of psychiatric disorders. Another benefit of acquiring this equipment will be improved training of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows: the use of the advanced and powerful technology of the requested platform will constitute an important part of their diversified training in neuroscience.