John White

Optogenetic Drive of Rhythmic Activity in the Brain

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Neural activity in the brain is notably rhythmic, and disruption of this rhythmic activity interferes with brain functions including learning and memory. In this project, the student will help us explore how rhythmic activity propagates from “pacemaker” structures to other parts of the brain that are responsible for critical forms of memory. First, we will transfect projecting cells from the pacemaker, using genetic methods to make the neurons fire action potentials in response to pulses of light. Next, we will test the hypothesis that these light-sensitive cells can drive complex forms of rhythmic activity in brain structures associated with memory.

RESEARCH GOALS
• Successfully transfect GABAergic neurons of the medial septum to make them excitable by visible light.
• Demonstrate that 8-Hz drive of transfected neurons drives rhythmic activity in the hippocampal formation with frequency peaks of 8 and 40 Hz.

LEARNING GOALS
• Understanding the fundamentals of episodic memory in animals and humans.
• Learning about optogenetics, in which genetic constructs can be used to make neurons and other cells light-sensitive.
• Performing surgeries to transfect neurons.
• Assisting in electrophysiological experiments.

Learn more about Professor White on his faculty page.