Changes in miRNA Expression in Contextual Conditioning
Author Information
Author(s): Kye Min Jeong, Pierre Neveu, Yong-Seok Lee, Miou Zhou, Judith A. Steen, Mustafa Sahin, Kenneth S. Kosik, Alcino J. Silva
Primary Institution: University of California Santa Barbara
Hypothesis
The study investigates how contextual conditioning affects miRNA expression in the hippocampal CA1 region of mice.
Conclusion
Contextual conditioning induces significant changes in miRNA expression that are dependent on NMDA receptor activity.
Supporting Evidence
- Half of the 187 measured miRNAs changed in response to contextual conditioning.
- Changes in miRNA expression were correlated with the timing of contextual conditioning.
- Blocking NMDA receptors reduced the changes in miRNA expression after conditioning.
Takeaway
When mice learn something new, their brain changes how it uses tiny molecules called miRNAs, which help control how proteins are made.
Methodology
The expression of 187 miRNAs was measured using quantitative real-time PCR in the hippocampal CA1 region of contextually conditioned mice.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on a specific brain region and may not generalize to other areas or species.
Participant Demographics
Three months old male F1 hybrid mice (C57Bl/6NTac ×129S6/SvEvTac).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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