Project Mentor

Dr. Xin-Ming Ma
Department of Neuroscience

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	Exploring the mechanisms underlying depression and anxiety with a novel COP1 genetic mouse mode. Depression is often co-morbid with anxiety. Currently available antidepressant drugs generate unsatisfactory outcomes because the mechanisms of depression are poorly understood. COP1 is a risk factor for depression and anxiety, its protein is found in the brain areas associated with depression and anxiety. This study is to find whether COP1 deficit or overdose in the brain causes depression in a COP1 genetic mouse model. The results will enhance our understanding of mechanisms underlying depression and anxiety.
Project Direction	The COP1 conditional knockin (COP1ckin) mice in which COP1 is overexpressed in the specific areas of mouse brain, and the COP1 conditional knockout (COP1cko) mice, in which COP1 is deleted in the specific areas of mouse brain have been generated in our laboratory. PCR technique will be used to identify mouse genotype and western blot will be used to evaluate the levels of protein of interest in the mouse brain. Behavioral tests will used to assess depression and anxiety behaviors, and spatial learning and memory in COP1ckin and COP1cko mice and their littermate wildtype controls. Our long-term aim is to use COP1cko and COP1CKIN mice to test our hypothesis: COP1 plays a key role in depression and anxiety by modifying the structure and function of excitatory and or inhibitory neurons in the brain.
Mentorship and Supervision	PI and lab members will provide all trainings. The student could talk/discuss with PI at any times when have questions. PI will monitor the research progress at least two times per week and provide the timely feed back. 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; 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	Monday-Friday 9am-5:00 pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2024, Spring 2025
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/HRP24-20. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.

This application requires a Resume or CV, Cover Letter, Unofficial Transcript, GPA, Science GPA, Statement of Qualifications, Statement of Research Interests, Statement of Career Interests, and References.