Project Summary

Paul De Koninck, Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2003) of Laval University, observes that changes in brain circuit connectivity, via the synapses, can be very constructive, as in learning, or terribly destructive as in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.  Dr. DeKoninck will study the mechanisms of synaptic remodeling at the structural, biological and physiological levels, by combining molecular, cellular, imaging and electrophysiological approaches.  His primary focus will be on an enzyme called the calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) which controls and decodes synaptic transmission and plays a central role in synaptic remodeling, learning and memory.  Dr. DeKoninck proposes to investigate the mechanisms that underlie CaMKII's functions which may contribute to a better understanding of the fine lines between constructive and destructive changes in neural circuitry.

Program Area: SCHIZOPHRENIA/PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS\Schizophrenia

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