Characterization and role of ryanodine receptors in retinal neurodegeneration induced by mechanical trauma

• Grant number: 13/21548-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2014
• End date: December 31, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Molecular Biology
• Principal Investigator: Alexandre Hiroaki Kihara
• Grantee: Francielison Alves dos Santos
• Host Institution: Centro de Matemática, Computação e Cognição (CMCC). Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC). Ministério da Educação (Brasil). Santo André , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Programmed cell death depends on several neuronal signaling to the activation of specific cellular pathways. Recent studies have shown that the concentration of cytosolic Ca²+ plays an important role in this process. The concentration of cytosolic Ca²+ can be regulated by binding proteins, transport proteins and channels located in the cell membrane and some organelles that store calcium inside as the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The release of Ca²+ in inventories is regulated by intracellular channels present in the membrane of the ER. These receptors are products of two distinct gene families known as ryanodine receptors (RyR) and the inositol 1,4,5 - triphosphate (IP3R) . There are three RyRs isoform types and they are present in all the nervous system. The increased concentration of cytosolic Ca ² +, given the action of these receptors can trigger neurodegenerative processes such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The aim of this study is to evaluate the regulation of RyRs in the neurodegenerative process triggered by focal mechanical trauma held in the rat retina. This proposal will have the collaboration of undergraduate students, postgraduate students and recently qualified doctors, supported by the Young Researcher Project FAPESP ( 2008/55210-1 ). (AU)