Neuroscience 2005 Abstract
| Presentation Number: | 204.9 |
|---|---|
| Abstract Title: | <i>In vivo</i> tests of putative dsRNA transporter function in the avian song system. |
| Authors: |
Lints, T.*1
; Dayani, L.1
; Tchernichovski, O.1
1Dept Biology, City Col. of New York, New York, NY |
| Primary Theme and Topics |
Cognition and Behavior - Neuroethology -- Vocal/social communication |
| Secondary Theme and Topics | Sensory and Motor Systems<br />- Multisensory |
| Session: |
204. Bird Song II Poster |
| Presentation Time: | Sunday, November 13, 2005 8:00 AM-9:00 AM |
| Location: | Washington Convention Center - Hall A-C, Board # PP31 |
| Keywords: | songbird, song system |
Previously (SFN 2004) we reported the identification and expression pattern of zfSIDT2, an avian homolog of a gene involved in the transport of small double-stranded RNA molecules and systemic RNA interference. zfSIDT2 transcripts are present in the songbird brain at extremely low levels, with expression in the forebrain restricted to HVC, RA, medial and lateral MAN, and the hippocampus.
We find that sites of zfSIDT2 expression in the brain coincide with the propensity of neurons in these regions to take up dsRNA, as judged 24hrs after injection of Cy3-labelled siRNAs. Immunohistochemical studies reveal distinct siRNA uptake and transport mechanisms in HVC->RA and HVC->X projection neurons. Fluorescent in situ hybridizations with zfSIDT2 probes demonstrate a punctate localization of mRNA transcripts in the neuropil, indicating that the mRNA is transported to pre and/or post-synaptic sites for local translation of the putative transport protein. These studies suggest the use of this transport mechanism as a conduit for high-throughput perturbation of gene expression in the song system. They also raise the question of the identity and function of endogenous dsRNA substrates transported within the brain.
We find that sites of zfSIDT2 expression in the brain coincide with the propensity of neurons in these regions to take up dsRNA, as judged 24hrs after injection of Cy3-labelled siRNAs. Immunohistochemical studies reveal distinct siRNA uptake and transport mechanisms in HVC->RA and HVC->X projection neurons. Fluorescent in situ hybridizations with zfSIDT2 probes demonstrate a punctate localization of mRNA transcripts in the neuropil, indicating that the mRNA is transported to pre and/or post-synaptic sites for local translation of the putative transport protein. These studies suggest the use of this transport mechanism as a conduit for high-throughput perturbation of gene expression in the song system. They also raise the question of the identity and function of endogenous dsRNA substrates transported within the brain.
Sample Citation:
[Authors]. [Abstract Title]. Program No. XXX.XX. 2005 Neuroscience Meeting Planner. Washington, DC: Society for Neuroscience, 2005. Online.
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