Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

My NSERC funded research program studies the effects of retinoic acid (the metabolite of Vitamin A) on nervous system function. In particular, we study novel nongenomic effects of retinoic acid on neurite outgrowth and growth cone turning behaviour during neuronal regeneration, as well as during synaptic changes (plasticity). To this end, we utilize identified adult neurons of the mollusc Lymnaea stagnalis, as these neurons can regenerate and reform specific synaptic connections in vitro. In particular, we perform live imaging of retinoid receptors and /or miRNA trafficking in cultured neurons and growth cones to determine how these are affected by retinoids. Key to the success of my (entirely NSE-focussed) research program, is a recording and imaging workstation (rig) that consists of a recently upgraded Zeiss inverted microscope equipped with fluorescence capabilities, precision micromanipulators and electrical recording equipment. This combination of equipment allows for simultaneous imaging with electrophysiological recordings from regenerating cultured neurons, neurites or synaptically connected cell pairs. Crucially, the Hamamatsu camera that was used for imaging on this important cell culture workstation has failed and we are in desperate need of funds to replace it. This recording rig is the only one of its kind at Brock University. As well as being required daily by my own graduate and undergraduate students (HQP), my collaborators and their HQP at Brock Uni. also have access to it. All of the graduate students trained in my lab over the last 22 years, as well as many Honours thesis undergraduate students and NSERC USRA summer students, have been trained on and have used this imaging and recording cell culture workstation. As the only female Neurobiologist in my department (and indeed the Faculty of Math and Science), I am a mentor to female students and strongly promote equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of my research program. In summary, without the requested equipment, this cell culture workstation will no longer be functioning as intended, and will jeopardize our abilities to carry out the experiments outlined in my recent NSERC Discovery grant (2021-2026), as well as my ability to continue to train HQP.