Glutamate delta receptor 1 (GluD1) is a unique synaptogenic molecule expressed at excitatory and inhibitory synapses. The lateral habenula (LHb), a subcortical structure that regulates negative reward prediction error and major monoaminergic systems, is enriched in GluD1. LHb dysfunction has been implicated in psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia, both of which are associated with GRID1, the gene that encodes GluD1.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFRegulator of G protein signalling 14 (RGS14) is a multifunctional signalling protein that serves as a natural suppressor of synaptic plasticity in the mouse brain. Our previous studies showed that RGS14 is highly expressed in postsynaptic dendrites and spines of pyramidal neurons in hippocampal area CA2 of the developing mouse brain. However, our more recent work with monkey brain shows that RGS14 is found in multiple neuron populations throughout hippocampal area CA1 and CA2, caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, substantia nigra and amygdala.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFCompact cell type-specific promoters are important tools for basic and preclinical research and clinical delivery of gene therapy. In this work, we designed novel MiniPromoters to target D1 and D2 type dopaminoceptive medium spiny neurons in the striatum by manually identifying candidate regulatory regions or employing the OnTarget webserver. We then empirically tested the designs in rAAV-PHP.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrine disorder for women of reproductive age, is associated with increased risk for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Current PCOS treatments insufficiently address the spectrum and severity of the disorder, and there is little evidence-based guidance available for lifestyle management of PCOS, especially through nutritional approaches. Some evidence shows that a very low-carbohydrate diet can improve glucose control compared to low-fat or moderate-carbohydrate diets, leading to improved glucose control and insulin levels that may help to treat symptoms of PCOS.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSexual and reproductive health (SRH) research capacity strengthening (RCS) programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are needed to foster the discovery of context-specific solutions to improve patient outcomes and population health. There remains a limited understanding of SRH research strengthening programs to raise skill sets, publications, and infrastructure and ultimately influence health policy and patient outcomes in LMICs. More information is needed to understand how SRH research is sustained after program completion.
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