Neuroscience 2000 Abstract
| Presentation Number: | 468.15 |
|---|---|
| Abstract Title: | Age-dependent changes in mRNA expression of a calcium calmodulin-dependent kinase and phosphatase in rat hippocampus. |
| Authors: |
Velasco, R.*1
; Gant , J. C.1
; Wood, J.2
; Thompson, L. T.2
1Neuroscience, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 2Health Professions Program, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX |
| Primary Theme and Topics |
I. Neural Basis of Behavior - 109. Learning and memory: pharmacology |
| Secondary Theme and Topics | J. Disorders of the Nervous System and Aging<br />- 148. Aging |
| Session: |
468. Learning and memory: pharmacology--molecular approaches and amino acids Poster |
| Presentation Time: | Tuesday, November 7, 2000 10:00 AM-11:00 AM |
| Location: | Hall G-J |
| Keywords: | AGING* [AGEING], Calmodulin kinase II, learning and memory, inSITU |
The regulation of intracellular free-calcium is altered as a function of age. This dysregulation can reduce neuronal excitability within the hippocampus, and is linked to profound but specific deficits in learning and memory. Via the binding protein calmodulin, two calcium sensitive enzymes play roles as major effector mechanisms, through changes in the phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of proteins. Prior work (Vaccha et. al., SFN Abstracts, 1999) indicated significant alterations in the expression of these enzymes in aged rats. Age-dependent decreases in CaMKII expression and increases in calcineurin expression, detected via immunocytochemistry, was observed in hippocampal, entorhinal cortex and parahippocampal regions, which are all strongly involved in multiple forms of learning and memory. The present study observed age-dependent changes in the expression of mRNA of CamKII and calcineurin. Standard in situ hybridization techniques were applied, yielding fluorescent labeled sections that were quantified for relative regional mRNA expression. Serial 10 mm sections of cryoprotected tissue were used from age groups across the lifespan of the male albino rat. As with the protein expression previously investigated, changes in mRNA expression of both CaMKII and calcineurin were age-dependent. These changes may be a primary molecular constituent that affects learning and memory.
Sample Citation:
[Authors]. [Abstract Title]. Program No. XXX.XX. 2000 Neuroscience Meeting Planner. New Orleans, LA: Society for Neuroscience, 2000. Online.
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