Falk College strives to achieve excellence in education not only through good teaching but also through participation in active research. Our students benefit by learning from researchers who are working at the cutting-edge of knowledge, within well-equipped laboratories, and in projects that are both domestic and abroad. We encourage both undergraduates and graduate engagement to achieve not only a rewarding educational experience but also enhanced career opportunities upon graduation. Learn more about the different types of research awards.
2021-2022 SU CUSE GrantVitamin D Supplementation in a Model of Rett Syndrome to Improve Breathing Outcomes
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a developmental disorder caused by mutations to the MECP2 gene. The Mecp2-mutant mouse is an important model to investigate RTT. Improvement of breathing deficits in this model are considered a primary goal in the development and application of new therapies. Since Vitamin D improves cortical neuron morphology through the NF-κB pathway, and previous work identified NF-κB signaling changes in the brainstem, it is highly plausible that brainstem and spinal cord neurons are also improved with Vitamin D supplementation, which would influence the pattern of breathing in Mecp2-mutant mice. This proposal focuses on the first key breathing experiment that is essential to provide proof-of-concept for this novel project by forming the collaboration between a cardiorespiratory physiology laboratory (L. DeRuisseau) and a developmental neurobiology laboratory (J. MacDonald).
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