On the role of the DNA repair enzyme Neil-3 in neurogenesis and hippocampal function
Adult Neurogenesis, Neil3, Dentate gyrus, DNA repair, Patch Clamp
In this Master's study I aim to investigate the role of the Neil3 enzyme in adult neurogenesis and hippocampal function. Preliminary data indicate that the DNA repair enzyme Neil3 affects reactive neurogenesis in adults. To this aim, I will perform patch clamp recordings of dentate gyrus (DG) (one of the most important sources of adult neurogenesis) in control and animals that the Neil3 enzyme was knocked out (Neil3-KO). Voltage imaging will be used to assess DG connectivity and I will perform morphological analyses of recorded neurons. Besides, in collaboration with a PhD student of the Brain Institute (UFRN), I will execute behavioral experiments to study anxiety in Neil3-KO mice. The rationale for these latter experiments is due to a recent finding that Neil3-KO mice reduced anxiety-like behavior. I expect finding alterations in membrane properties, connectivity and morphology of newborn neurons in Neil3-KO animals and how these alterations could affect DG function. This study will shed light on the role of DNA repair pathways in adult neurogenesis and the role of neurogenesis in hippocampal function.