Project Summary

Lynette C. Daws, Ph.D. (Independent Investigator 2007) of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, will study the neurological underpinnings of stress-related affective disorders such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Serotonin neurotransmission in the hippocampus region of the brain is particularly affected by stress. Dr. Daws’ research will aim to elucidate a role for a mechanism called organic cation transporters (OCTs) in stress induced elevation of extracellular serotonin. Recent findings show that corticosterone, a hormone released in response to stress, when applied directly to the hippocampus, can inhibit serotonin clearance. This effect correlates with the level of OCT expression. These data point to the loss of OCT function as underlying the reduced rates of serotonin clearance in the hippocampus.

Program Area: MULTIPLE FOCUS\Anxiety Disorders/Mood Disorders

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