Effects of FABP5 on nicotine and THC pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic.

AAV vector genetic editing.

We aim to use genetic tools to elucidate potential targets of FABP5 for reducing nicotine preference. 

Project description

This project aims to investigate the role of Fatty acid binding protein (FABP) 5 in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) in mouse nicotine or THC seeking behavior. Previous experiments in our lab have found global knock out of FABP5 to reduce nicotine conditioned place preference. This project aims to elucidate the role of the VTA and NAc in nicotine response as well as the involvement of FABP5 in observed behavior. FABP5 selective gene transfer in mice will be followed by nicotine self-administration paradigm. 

Project outcome

This project will provide students with the opportunity to train on a variety of research techniques including, behavioral paradigms, surgical skills, data analysis, writing and submit abstract/posters as well as peer-reviewed research papers.

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment Longer than a semester; 6-9 months
Start time Spring (January/February) 
In-person, remote, or hybrid? In-Person Project (can only function with in-person engagement) 
Level of collaboration Large group collaboration (4+ students) 
Benefits Academic credit   
Who is eligible All undergraduate students 

Project mentor

Panayotis Thanos

Senior Research Scientist

Pharmacology and Toxicology

Phone: (716) 881-7520

Email: thanos@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
Start the Digital Badge

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

Please read the following articles
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36864947/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26311517/
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/385/S3/170

Keywords

Pharmacology and Toxicology, THC, Neuroscience, AAV