Project Summary

Robert D. Hawkins, Ph.D. (Independent Investigator 2000) of Columbia University, will investigate the mechanisms which underlie abnormalities in presynaptic proteins in schizophrenia. These proteins are involved in the release of neurotransmitters at the synapse (the connection between adjacent nerve cells). These abnormalities could be related to changes in long-term potentiation (LTP), which is thought to contribute to the establishment and fine-tuning of cortical circuitry during development and learning. Dr. Hawkins will investigate whether alterations in presynaptic proteins represent changes in synthesis and transport of the proteins, local redistribution of the proteins, or increased exposure of the antibody binding sites of these proteins. These studies should provide information that may explain the causes of abnormal presynaptic protein levels in the brains of patients with schizophrenia.

Program Area: SCHIZOPHRENIA/PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS\Schizophrenia

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