This project will attempt to gain a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of sensory inhibition deficits
Sensory inhibition deficits are commonly observed in schizophrenia and are thought to be related to certain cognitive problems and to hallucinations. Similar deficits have been found to occur spontaneously, or can be created via certain manipulations, in rodents. Using rodent models, we are attempting to identify the mechanism(s) underlying the deficit. We are also involved in the development of new drugs to treat the deficit. The primary method employed is electrophysiological recording of auditory evoked potentials, both acutely in anesthetized mice and in chronically implanted, awake and behaving rats. Current projects include investigation of new drugs, permanent correction of the deficit through gestational interventions, and studies of neurotransmitter receptor involvement through alteration of receptor levels via mRNA manipulations.
Preceptor Information |
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| Name: | Karen Stevens |
| Department: | Psychiatry |
| Location: | Research Tower 1 |
| Fitzsimmons Campus | |
| Contact: | 303-724-4423 |
| karen.stevens@uchsc.edu | |
| Faculty/Lab Website: | |
Position Information |
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| Openings: | 1 |
| Funding: | No |