Biological function of Egr-1 in the nervous system

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Gerald Thiel
• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2004 to 2005
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5436911

The biosynthesis of the zinc finger transcription factor Egr-1 is stimulated by many extracellular signaling molecules including hormones, neurotransmitters, growth and differentiation factors, and cytotoxic metabolites. The Egr-1 gene therfore functions as a convergence point for many signaling cascades. The Egr-1 protein links these cellular signaling cascades with changes in the gene expression pattern of Egr-1-responsive target genes. Many biological functions have been attributed to Egr-1, including the control of cellular proliferation and programmed cell death. Using transgenic mice containing a disrupted Egr-1 gene, we plan to analyze the biological functions of Egr-1 in the nervous system. The investigation will be focused on the elucidation of the role that Egr-1 plays in the control of astrocyte proliferation and neuronal programmed cell death.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants