Role of mTORC1 in hypothalamic neurogenesis in response to metabolic signals
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Cambridge
Department Name: Clinical Biochemistry
Abstract
Pilot data obtained during the rotation project will help form hypothesis on the role of the mTORC1 signalling pathway in hypothalamic adult neurogenesis. Work will be continued as follows: assessment of the effects of metabolic signals (fasting, feeding, glucose, leptin, ghrelin, amino acids) on the activation status of the mTORC1 pathway in hypothalamic stem cells, progenitor cells and neuroblasts. Determination of the role of mTORC1 in hypothalamic proliferative activity. Using genetic tools to manipulate adult stem cells only and viral-based strategy to bidirectionnally modulate mTORC1 signalling in these cells, the candidate will assess the consequences mTORC1 gain- or loss-of-function on hypothalamic proliferation, and differentiation. Investigate the role of mTORC1 activation in new-born cell fate and integration into existing metabolic-regulatory circuits. Assess the functional consequences of mTORC1-driven hypothalamic neurogenesis on behavioural and metabolic effectors of energy balance.
Organisations
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BB/M011194/1 | 01/10/2015 | 31/03/2024 | |||
| 1644127 | Studentship | BB/M011194/1 | 01/10/2015 | 30/09/2019 | Sara Kohnke |
| Description | We discovered a new population of cells that might be involved in regulating energy homeostasis. |
| Exploitation Route | We are trying to build a translational arm of this project, to show that the findings could be important for humans as well - this could inform our knowledge of human physiology. We currently have a collaboration with a human brain bank and are studying if cells we find in mice are also present in humans. |
| Sectors | Agriculture, Food and Drink,Healthcare,Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology |
| Description | Pub talk - CamBrain society |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Nearly 50 people attended a talk in the pub about various neuroscience topics. My talk was about neurogenesis in the hypothalamus and how this can regulate food intake. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |