Mapping Micro RNAs in Neurons

Mapping Micro RNAs in Neurons – Dr. Gary Bassell, Assoc. Professor of Human Genetics at Emory University, on a new project to map micro RNAs in neurons for the purpose of determining their role in a variety of neurological conditions, including Fragile X, as well as the effect of drug abuse. Background Micro RNAs are a recently discovered type of RNA that directly regulates other genes rather than being translated into proteins like many RNAs. They appear to guide neurons responses to sensory and developmental signals, and could make good targets for treating conditions such as drug addiction. This project seeks to draw a detailed map of how micro RNAs are distributed within neurons. The project was recently a grant of 2500 from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIH. Related Links Recovery Act Funding at Emory University www.emory.edu