Noradrenergic Modulation of Light-Driven Egr-1 Expression in the Adult Visual Cortex
2011
Noradrenaline's Role in Visual Cortex Gene Expression
Sample size: 14
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Liisa A. Tremere
Primary Institution: University of Rochester
Hypothesis
Local noradrenergic receptor activation in V1 is necessary for experience-regulated gene expression in the mouse V1.
Conclusion
Noradrenergic transmission is required for light-induced expression of the gene egr-1 in the visual cortex of awake mice.
Supporting Evidence
- Noradrenaline modulates sensory-driven responses in the primary visual cortex.
- Light stimulation significantly increases egr-1 expression in V1 neurons.
- Blockade of β-adrenergic receptors decreases egr-1 expression in V1.
- Blockade of α-adrenergic receptors largely abolishes egr-1 expression in V1.
Takeaway
This study shows that a brain chemical called noradrenaline helps control how a gene important for learning and memory is turned on when mice see light.
Methodology
The study used pharmacological injections in the visual cortex of restrained, awake mice to assess the role of noradrenergic receptors in gene expression.
Participant Demographics
14 female Swiss Webster mice
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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