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 Project Summary  Guang Chen, M.D., Ph.D. (Independent Investigator 2002) of National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH/NIH), is studying the Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase (ERK) cell signaling pathway in the nervous system, which is activated by neurotrophins such as brain derivative growth factor (BDNF). There are two ERK subtypes in the pathway, ERK1 and ERK2, and both are extensively expressed in the brain. The ERK pathway plays an important role in neuronal differentiation, dendrite/axon extension, and neuronal survival. It is also important in modulating reward systems, circadian rhythms and various forms of synaptic plasticity in adult animals-all processes which may be impaired in mood disorders. Dr. Chen hopes to determine the precise therapeutic relevance of the effects of lithium and VPA on the ERK pathway, and the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the ERK pathway modulates affective-like behavior. Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Bipolar\Pharmacology |
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NARSAD Award Winners
 Colleen Ann McClung, Ph.D., UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, 2005 & 2007 Young Investigator Latest News from NARSAD
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