Project Mentor

Dr. Xin-Ming Ma
Department of Neuroscience

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	Understanding the mechanisms underlying depression and anxiety using a novel COP1 genetic mouse model. Depression is often comorbid with anxiety. The Currently available antidepressants produce unsatisfactory results due to the limited understanding of the mechanisms underlying depression and anxiety. COP1 is a known risk factor for both conditions, and its protein is present in the brain areas associated with depression and anxiety. This study aims to determine whether COP1 deficiency or excess in the brain contributes to the development of depression and/or anxiety in a COP1 genetic mouse model. The findings will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie depression and anxiety.
Project Direction	The COP1 conditional knockin (COP1ckin) mice, in which COP1 is overexpressed in specific areas of the mouse brain, and the COP1 conditional knockout (COP1cko) mice, in which COP1 is deleted in specific areas of the mouse brain have been generated in our laboratory. PCR technique will be used to identify the mouse genotype, and Western blotting will be used to evaluate the protein levels in the mouse brain. Behavioral tests will be used to assess depression, anxiety behaviors, and spatial learning and memory in COP1ckin and COP1cko mice, along with their littermate wild-type controls. Our long-term goal is to use COP1cko and COP1ckin mice to test our hypothesis: COP1 plays a key role in depression and anxiety by altering the structure and function of dendritic spines and synapses in the brain.
Mentorship and Supervision	PI and lab members will provide all training. The student could talk/discuss with PI at any time if have questions. PI will monitor the research progress at least twice a week and provide the timely feedback. Will require the student to read one research article related to his/her research project every week.
Student Qualifications	Basic knowledge of a science such as chemistry, biology, physiology, as well as basic knowledge of scientific techniques such as PCR, western blot, reagent/solution preparation. The successful candidate will have the chance to learn the techniques/skills required for this project.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 19 to July 25, 2025 Schedule: Monday-Friday 9am through 5pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2025, Spring 2026
Academic Year Time Commitment	9 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU25-19. The application deadline is Monday, February 17, 2025.

This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, GPA and science GPA, a brief statement of research interests, a brief statement of career interests, and references.