The mission of the Laboratory of Animal Models is the generation and analysis of animal models. Our main goal is to determine the effect of genetic modification on the behavior and metabolism of the tested animal. Laboratory has latest technology equipment for the production of genetically modified animals and then to study the so-produced models.
In addition, the laboratory serves as a "core-facility”. The facility provides services for the production of genetically modified animals and viral vectors. We offer service to scientific and R&D institutions worldwide.
Our current research profile:
Studies carried out in the Laboratory Animal models are features of non-coding RNA, in particular microRNA-dependent protein Dicer in various brain regions and peripheral tissues. We focus on two major issues:
• The role of microRNA in synaptic plasticity of neurons involved in the formation of the memory trace. In particular, we are looking for microRNAs involved in the regulation of translation neurotrophic factor BDNF. We have recently shown the impact of such microRNA on enhancement of learning and memory (Konopka et al., 2010).
• The role of microRNA in the neurons of the peripheral tissues and tissues involved in the development of metabolic syndrome in mice. We are focused on investigating microRNA involved in the regulation of translation of genes present path signal transduction leading from the insulin receptor kinase mTOR. This path is responsible for the regulation of cellular metabolism in response to the availability of nutrients.
In Laboratory of Animal Models we perform:
- The production of viral vectors (and AAV lentiviral vectors) and transgenic animals. Transgenic mice and rats are produced by the standard method of "microinjection" and using lentiviral vectors (see the NEW GENE section)
- The genetic modification stereotactic injections of lentiviral vector or AAV into various structures of the brain e.g. hippocampus, amygdala, hypothalamus etc
- The optogenetic experiments in vivo - the activation or inhibition of the activity of selected groups of neurons expressing opsin protein family by using laser light
- Long-term metabolic studies. Metabolic cages enable continuous, long-term (several weeks) measuring parameters such as indirect calorimetry, XYZ physical activity, food and water intake and body weight
- Behavioral tests enabling phenotyping and psychomotoric characterization of animal. We perform neurological examination, motor skills tests, exploratory tests, emotionality, learning and memory tests using traditional instrumental conditioning (fear conditioning or operant conditioning) as well as automatic IntelliCage software for testing mice in social groups with limited influence of experimenter.
For more details see NEW MIND section