Project Summary

Christoph Kellendonk, Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2002) of Columbia University, will isolate mouse genes, which are selectively active in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), in order to gain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms which influence working memory deficits associated with schizophrenia.  Working memory deficit is a prominent symptom in schizophrenia.  It is a short-term memory that is used to hold information momentarily “on-line” in order to plan and execute the next action.  Dr. Kellendonk will use the identified PFC-specific genes to study their role in working memory and to study the function of other important molecules in working memory.  The generated transgenic mice should give insights in the molecular mechanisms of working memory and thus ultimately provide potential targets for schizophrenic treatment.

Program Area: SCHIZOPHRENIA/PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS\Schizophrenia

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