Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

The requested funds will be used to purchase a system that will allow us to measure levels of genes in brain tissue generated from animal models.  The system will be used by 5 researchers, each of whom is interested in a different aspect of brain function.  For example, this system will be used to measure levels of genes involved in the function of brain cell communication and also used to measure levels of genes potentially involved in the cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease.  These examples serve to illustrate the broad range of uses of this system and the multi-level approach to neuroscience that occurs in the Psychology department at Dalhousie University.  Other uses for this equipment will include examining how stress affects levels of genes important for brain function, investigating the importance of structural genes for development of brain regions important for vision, and examining genes involved in development of the auditory system in songbirds.  In addition to providing a vital tool for the above-mentioned research projects, this system will be used to train highly qualified personnel (undergraduate, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, technicians) from each of the co-applicant's labs.