Role of Cajal-Retzius cells in hippocampal function
Cajal-Retzius cells are a transient population of cells characterizing the first month of the hippocampus postnatal development. Even though these cells have been first identified by Ramon y Cajal more than a century ago, little is still known about their role in the circuit and function of this region. Building on recent data collected in the group, showing significant alterations in the maturation of the hippocampus after early postnatal ablation of Cajal-Retzius cells, we aim to expand our study to behavioral analysis. The aim of this project is to understand the role played by Cajal-Retzius cells in the maturation of the hippocampal function. We will combine anatomical techniques with behavioral experiments and state-of-the-art in vivo physiology, to study how ablation of hippocampal Cajal-Retzius cells affects hippocampal dependent learning and memory.
We aim to use a total of 464 transgenic mice of either sex. To ensure the wellbeing of the mice, we will use enriched environment and small group housing, whenever possible. Surgical procedures will be performed to inject viral vectors to manipulate cells, for i) anatomical studies, or ii) to test behavioral discrepancies, or iii) to implant multi-shank Neuropixel silicon probes for recording electrical activity in the hippocampus. The procedures are continuously monitored and validated by the animal caretakers and the local veterinarian, and they are evaluated as moderate, since the animals are completely recovered after 2 days. All the personnel involved is trained and licensed to perform animal experiments and will take part in regular training updates. We aim to reduce the number of animals used to the minimum required to achieve statistical significance. Techniques are well established in the lab or in the department, and procedures have been refined to ensure the best possible recovery and well-being of the animals.
We aim to use a total of 464 transgenic mice of either sex. To ensure the wellbeing of the mice, we will use enriched environment and small group housing, whenever possible. Surgical procedures will be performed to inject viral vectors to manipulate cells, for i) anatomical studies, or ii) to test behavioral discrepancies, or iii) to implant multi-shank Neuropixel silicon probes for recording electrical activity in the hippocampus. The procedures are continuously monitored and validated by the animal caretakers and the local veterinarian, and they are evaluated as moderate, since the animals are completely recovered after 2 days. All the personnel involved is trained and licensed to perform animal experiments and will take part in regular training updates. We aim to reduce the number of animals used to the minimum required to achieve statistical significance. Techniques are well established in the lab or in the department, and procedures have been refined to ensure the best possible recovery and well-being of the animals.