Linking neuronal function to mental health: How genetic risk factors impair cognitive flexibility and neural plasticity in psychiatric disorders

Project Code

MRCNMH24Br Mellor

Research Theme

Neuroscience and Mental Health

Full Project Description

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Summary

Genetic risk factors for psychiatric disorders are clustered around genes that regulate synaptic function and adaptation, indicating common disrupted biological processes. We have revealed how one of these genes (Dlg2) perturbs a core feature of synaptic signalling. In this project, we will uncover how this leads to abnormal cognition by directly measuring neuronal adaptations during tasks demanding cognitive flexibility, and test mechanisms to rescue cognition.

Lead Supervisor

Professor Jack Mellor

Lead Supervisor Email

jack.mellor@bristol.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Bristol