Selective Control of Synaptically-Connected Circuit Elements by Interluminescence - Diversity Supplement SILVAGNOLI

Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant MI

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Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The Diversity Supplement candidate will be trained in all aspects of validating Interluminescence in vivo, from stereotaxic injections of AAV, verifying construct expression through fluorescence microscopy, to acute extracellular recordings and computational sophisticated electrophysiological analysis. The experimental approach will allow the candidate to assess Interluminescence within a well-defined experimental model while building a solid conceptual and experimental foundation for his graduate work. The training experiences the candidate will gain are critical for his understanding, designing, and interpretation of state-of-the-art neuroscience experiments. The training plan takes into consideration that the candidate is at the beginning of his graduate training, gives him a ‘hot start’ in his education, and ensures that the candidate will have an exceedingly strong background for meeting his career goals. His training will have ranged from hands- on experience in designing and executing in vivo experiments for controlling neural activity and behavior to evaluating and interpreting the collected data. Therefore, this training in in vivo electrophysiology will not only significantly contribute to the parent grant but will specifically provide him the experience required to pursue his long-term interest in synaptic plasticity and behavior. The proposed training outlined in the application is ideal given the candidate’s early career stage and is tailored to having the greatest impact at the earliest possible time point. An established team training strategy between the two mentors will foster the candidate’s ability to swiftly reach a level where he can independently investigate the role of synaptically-connected circuits. The proposed supplement activities will increase the parent award’s overall impact within the original scope of award while at the same time advancing the training and career development of the candidate.