Neural plasticity has been proposed as a molecular and cellular basis of critical behaviors including learning and adaptation. In our final project, we will explore the impact of positive and toxic stress on neural plasticity and learning. We will attempt to elucidate under what conditions stress results in enhanced neural plasticity and cell survival and conversely the biochemical mechanisms that are recruited after toxic or chronic stress exposure that lead to impaired plasticity and even neurotoxicity. Finally, our project will discuss the relevance of these findings in the context potential consequences of a stressful environment on normal childhood development of cognitive skills.
After discussion of our project we have decided to expand the scope of our final project to include neuroprotection, neurotoxicity, and plasticity. We then proceeded to divide the project into roughly three parts, all of which would share enough overlap but would allow us directed and thorough research.
Josef: Neural Plasticity & Stress
Under which conditions does stress result in impaired neuronal plasticity and under which does it result in enhancements? What is the role of the glucocorticoid receptor in synapses and synaptic events such as long-term potentiation? What biochemical mechanisms might be recruited by stress that lead to such divergent outcomes for synaptic plasticity?
James: Neuroprotection/Neurotoxicity & Stress How does chronic stress lead to cell death in sensitive areas of the brain such as the hippocampus? How would this differ to account for the reduced neurotoxicity and at times neuroprotective effect observed under acute or positive stress conditions? How would interactions between the mitochondria and stress-induced glucocorticoid activation explain improved cell survival or exacerbated toxicity?
Eduardo: Stress and Consequences on Behavior Why does stress translate in certain scenarios into enhanced cognitive performance and learning? What is the nature and impact of the damage or abnormal neuronal function in certain regions of the brain after chronic stress? What is the significance of stress in neural childhood development, and later in adulthood on cognitive functions? Does stress exacerbate cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease patients?
At this point our questions are not set in stone, and we might add or drop specific questions depending on how well we can integrate our information and keep the theme of our project cohesive.