Project Summary

John Wemmie, M.D., Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2007) of the University of Iowa, will study the acid-sensing ion channel (ASIC1a), found in abundance in the amygdala, which is a brain region implicated in fear and anxiety. Using a rodent-based model, Dr. Wemmie will test whether an ASIC1a inhibitor blocks fear-related learning and or the manifestations of learned fear in mice. The knowledge gained from this experiment could be used in the future to readily test the impact of mutations in the human ASIC1a gene on fear and anxiety. In addition, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for anxiety-related behavior in animals may help identify promising therapeutic targets.

Program Area: ANXIETY DISORDERS\Anxiety Disorder

Search Again