Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output
About This Grant
PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Animals rely on visual information to interact with their environment. In contrast to visual perception, other visual functions benefit from a temporally and spatially blurred version of the surroundings – one that is sensitive to overall illumination (irradiance) instead of image detail. In mammals, these functions rely on intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) which sense light directly due to their expression of the photopigment melanopsin. There is evidence that the M1 type of ipRGC is required for a wide range of non-image-forming visual functions such as setting of circadian phase, control of the pupil, and even regulation of mood. These mechanisms of physiological control appear to be dependent on a measure of irradiance. Indeed, our lab has shown that M1s are exceptionally well-suited to encode environmental irradiance thanks to efficient temporal integration and population level responses that span the physiological range of light intensities. That said, previous studies of M1 ipRGCs have focused on the somatodendritic compartment. The hypothesis driving this proposal is that axonal and synaptic specializations make M1s even more effective at encoding and transmitting irradiance information than is currently appreciated. Aim 1 will explore the functional consequences of axonal melanopsin expression. M1 axons can travel long distance (>1mm) within the retina where they are subject to natural light stimulation. My preliminary data suggest that the axons can sense light and generate action potentials independently of the soma. I will explore the ways in which this axonal photosensitivity augments the output of M1s. Aim 2 will explore how synaptic properties further transform the output of M1s and dictate how they drive downstream circuits. M1s have been identified as vital for two regulatory behaviors in particular: circadian control (mediated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus; SCN) and pupillary control (mediated by the olivary pretectal nucleus; OPN). M1s control circadian phase on slow timescales (hours to days) but control the pupil on fast timescales (seconds to minutes). I will explore the features of the M1 synapse, in combination with those of the postsynaptic cells of the SCN and OPN, that enable M1s to drive these qualitatively and quantitatively disparate behaviors. Together, these experiments will inform our understanding of how ipRGCs encode and transmit photic information and will add to our basic understanding of the biophysical mechanisms underlying neuronal signaling.
Grant Summary
Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output is a NEI - National Eye Institute grant providing up to $44K for university, nonprofit, healthcare org. Applications are due 2028-02-29 (open). Check eligibility and apply with FindGrants.
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Up to $44K
2028-02-29
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Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output?
Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output is offered by NEI - National Eye Institute and is generally open to university, nonprofit, healthcare org. It is open to organizations nationwide unless the funder specifies otherwise. Review the specific eligibility terms before applying, since funders set their own requirements around organization type, location, and the population or project being served.
How much funding does the Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output provide?
Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output provides up to $44K per award from NEI - National Eye Institute. Actual award sizes depend on the scope of your project, available program funds, and the number of applicants, so build a budget that reflects realistic, allowable costs rather than the maximum figure.
When is the Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output deadline?
Applications for Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output are due 2028-02-29 (open). Because deadlines can change, verify the date with the funder, NEI - National Eye Institute, and give yourself enough time to prepare a complete, competitive application before the close date.
How do you apply for the Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output?
To apply for Axonal and synaptic transformations of melanopsin retinal ganglion cell output, confirm your eligibility, gather the required documents, and prepare a narrative and budget that address the funder's priorities. FindGrants guides you step by step and can draft each section, then exports a submission-ready application pack for this grant from NEI - National Eye Institute.