Functional Neurogenomics Program
Overview
The program supports research on the elucidation of gene function and gene regulatory mechanisms in vertebrate and invertebrate model organisms relevant to understanding the genomics components of neuronal development, signal transduction, synaptic plasticity, circadian rhythmicity, drug discovery, and the mechanism of action of therapeutics. Research supported by this program includes studies of DNA regulatory mechanisms; studies of the effects of changes in RNA processing and expression; and investigation of translational processes and molecular mediators responsible for functional changes within specific populations of brain cells. The Branch particularly encourages model systems aimed at analysis at all levels, from molecules to systems, and across the lifespan.
Areas of Emphasis
- Developing vertebrate and invertebrate models (mouse, fly, zebrafish, etc.) to understand the biological function of genes implicated in mental disorders.
- Developing strategies for deciphering the molecular basis of individual variations in neural and behavioral responses to environmental manipulations, including drug treatments for mental disorders.
- Identifying transcriptional and post-transcriptional elements determining temporally regulated, circuit, region, and cell-type specific gene expression.
- Identifying and characterizing the functional roles of gene regulatory components in the CNS including transcription factors, co-activators, co-repressors, enhancers, silencers, RNA binding proteins, and other cis- and trans-acting elements.
- Developing and applying improved molecular reagents to understand how transcriptional and translational mediators temporally regulate gene expression in brain throughout the lifespan, in health and disease.
Contact
Andrea Beckel-Mitchener, Ph.D.
Program Chief
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 7187, MSC 9641
301-443-5288, amitchen@mail.nih.gov
