Grant: Operating Grant

Proper brain function relies on the communication between cells (neurons) in the brain and this largely depends on excitatory and inhibitory actions between neurons. The disruption of this balance can result in epilepsy and seizures and the death of neurons that are over-stimulated. In the laboratory, we have developed a mouse model to study the cellular signatures of neuron death using an agent, kainic acid, which overstimulates neurons. An experimental, whole animal model is used that has mixtures of neurons that are sensitive or resistant to the detrimental effects of kainic acid and we will study the factors that are within the neurons or that are part of the environment that determine whether neurons will die. This will lead us to therapeutic approaches to limit neuron death that often follow epileptic episodes or stroke.