Project Details
Projekt
Function and regulation of Ca2+ signals in identified hypothalamic neurons (A16+)
Subject Area
Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
Term
from 2011 to 2015
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 157660137
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) binds to its G-protein coupled receptor (GnRHR) and triggers via activation of phospholipase C and the production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) the mobilization of Ca2+. GnRHR-expressing hypothalamic neurons respond differently to a GnRH stimulation with either transient or fluctuating and oscillatory increases in cytosolic Ca2+. An important factor affecting the presence and pattern of Ca2+ oscillations is the type and level of expression of IP3-receptor (IP3R) isoforms. The main goal of this current proposal is to gain insights into the relationship between Ca2+ oscillations and intracellular Ca2+ discharges in arcuate and periventricular GnRHR neurons by investigating the release of Ca2+ from IP3-sensitive stores. The findings of this study will present new aspects for understanding Ca2+ signaling in hormone-dependent neurons and give insights into the essential role of Ca2+ in shaping action potential firing of GnRHR neurons and modifying in that way reproductive physiology.
DFG Programme
Collaborative Research Centres
Applicant Institution
Universität des Saarlandes
Project Head
Professorin Dr. Trese Leinders-Zufall
