Researchers' Proposals

1.

TITLE: Development, morphology and function of mammalian locomotor related spinal interneurons

ABSTRACT: The goal of the proposed work is to identify, characterize and elucidate the development of groups of spinal interneurons that play a key role in generating and coordinating mammalian locomotion. In particular we propose to identify and characterize interneurons involved in left-right as well as flexor-extensor alternation by using a multidisciplinary approach that combines modern anatomical tracing techniques, electrophysiological recordings and neurotransmitter immunohistochemistry. Experiments will be performed on prenatal, early postnatal and adult rats and mice to provide the opportunity for complementing these techniques with transgenic methodology for the elucidation of interneuron differentiation and synaptic connectivity during pre- and post-natal development. With this combination of approaches we should be able to obtain a new insight into genetic and epigenetic mechanisms by which mammalian motor circuits are established and function.

2.

TITLE: Organization of neural networks underlying nociceptive information processing and pain attenuation in the spinal cord and brainstem

ABSTRACT: The proposed research is focused on the synaptic relations, morphological, physiological and neurochemical properties of neural networks underlying nociceptive information processing and pain attenuation mechanisms in the spinal cord and brainstem. In addition to studying the nociceptive and antinociceptive mechanisms under normal conditions, we will make an attempt to elucidate how the physiological, morphological and neurochemical properties of pain-processing neural networks in the spinal dorsal horn may change in inflammatory pain states. Results obtained from the proposed studies may lead us to a more exhaustive understanding of the structural, functional and chemical characteristics of neural networks that play crucial role in pain processing and attenuation, and through this may provide important data for the development of effective and non-addictive analgesics.