Project Summary

Robert Sapolsky, Ph.D. (Distinguished Investigator 2004) of Stanford University, will investigate the role of glucocorticoids (GC) in anxiety disorders. Using gene therapy techniques, he will attempt to block stress-induced promotion of amygdala function. Dr. Sapolsky notes that stress actually augments synaptic strength in the amygdala and causes amgydala neurons to form new dendritic branches. The stress effects seem to be mediated by GCs, the adrenal steroid hormones secreted during stress. Dr. Sapolsky has successfully developed vector-systems that are GC-inducible. He will now attempt to construct stress-inducible vectors that will be introduced into the amygdala, to express genes that will block amygdala hyperexcitation during a stressor, or to block downstream steps that mediate the stress-induced potentiation of amygdala activity. He hopes to better understand the neurobiology of fear and anxiety, as well as learn more about gene therapy for trauma and anxiety.

Program Area: ANXIETY DISORDERS\Anxiety Disorder

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