Assist in analyzing the expression of the gene, Htr 7 in rat brains chronically exposed to Methylphenidate. Students interested in neuroscience and medicine will have the opportunity to assist in this analysis.
Our laboratory is interested in analyzing gene expression in rat brains that have been chronically exposed to Methylphenidate for 13 weeks. Methylphenidate is a psychostimulant, FDA approved for treating the common symptoms of ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Other research has studied the mechanism of action of Methylphenidate in individuals with ADHD, in which Methylphenidate, MP, inhibits the transporters of different neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. In turn, reuptake is blocked, increasing the synaptic concentrations of these neurotransmitters. Rat brains, homologous to the human brain, have families of genes that, in response to MP and this change in synaptic concentration, can have altered expression, dissipating specific symptoms associated with ADHD. In this project, the monoamine neurotransmitter gene, Htr 7, serotonin 7, can modulate behavioral impulsivity when potentiated. Prior research has suggested Htr7 has significantly been upregulated when exposed to MP in different regions of the rat brain. This project will use brain punching and homogenization to isolate the specific regions of the brain, then use RT-PCR to analyze the expression of this gene. By analyzing the gene expression, we can study and use this research to build a deeper understanding that may one day be applied to individuals with ADHD. This study can further develop the extent to which the genes are expressed when exposed to Methylphenidate. We are looking for students interested in assisting in this analysis and who have an interest in neuroscience and biology.
This project will provide students with the opportunity to write and submit abstract/posters as well as peer-reviewed research papers.
Length of commitment | Year-long (10-12 months) |
Start time | Anytime |
In-person, remote, or hybrid? | In-person |
Level of collaboration | Small group project (2-3 students) |
Benefits | Academic credit |
Who is eligible | All undergraduate students |
Panayotis Thanos
Senior Research Scientist
Pharmacology and Toxicology
Phone: (716) 881-7520
Email: thanos@buffalo.edu
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.
Pharmacology and Toxicology