Scientific Areas of Integrated Review Groups (IRGs)
For a listing of the Scientific Review
Administrator and membership roster for each study section, click on the study
section roster under the study section name within the IRG listed below or go
to the study
section index (study sections listed alphabetically) and click on the
specified roster next to the name of the study section.
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Referral & Review |
Molecular,
Cellular, and Developmental Neuroscience IRG [MDCN] 
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Study sections of the
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Neuroscience [MDCN] IRG review
applications on the structure and function of neuronal, glial, and other
excitable cells, as well as the development of both the central and the
peripheral nervous systems, inclusive of the visual system and other
excitable cells. Excitable cells, in addition to neural cells, include
endocrine and neuroendocrine cells, pancreatic beta-cells, chromaffin cells,
muscle cells, neuromuscular junctions, etc. Areas of interest include the
functional characteristics of ion channels, the mechanisms by which extra-
and intracellular signals are transduced and the functional characteristics
of the transducers themselves, general mechanisms underlying the process of
cell death, analyses of neural cell lineage, factors that specify or
influence neuronal migration pathways or axonal pathfinding, processes that
involve the maturation of neurons and glia, the formation of patterns and
boundaries that lead to the development of adult brain regions and nuclei,
and other aspects of the basic cellular and molecular physiology of neurons
and glia. Applications reviewed in the MDCN IRG may be relevant to disorders
or injuries, but their emphasis lies more in revealing the basic biological
processes that underlie or may be altered in disorder than in treating the
disorder or its manifestations. The MDCN IRG also has Special
Emphasis Panels for the review of fellowship and SBIR/STTR applications as
well as neurotechnology, bioengineering, neurogenetics and neuroinformatics
applications. In addition to this IRG, the
Integrative, Functional, and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] and Brain
Disorders and Clinical Neuroscience [BDCN] IRGs within CSR focus on the
review of neuroscience-related applications. Please see the descriptions and
shared interest statements of these IRGs for a complete description of their
review venues. The
following study sections are included within the MDCN IRG: Synapses,
Cytoskeleton and Trafficking Study Section [SYN] Formerly MDCN-1 Neurotransporters,
Receptors, Channels and Calcium Signaling Study Section [NTRC] Formerly MDCN-4 Biochemical and Molecular Neuroscience Fellowship Study Section [F03A] Biophysical
and Physiological Neuroscience Fellowship Study Section [F03B] Synapses, Cytoskeleton and Trafficking Study
Section [SYN]
Formerly MDCN-1
The Synapses, Cytoskeleton and
Trafficking [SYN] Study Section reviews applications on the basic cell
biology of nerve, muscle and other excitable cells, including synaptic
plasticity, protein and organelle trafficking, cell surface and extracellular
matrix molecules in cell recognition and function, and cytoskeletal functions
across the life span. Emphasis is on fundamental mechanisms of excitable cell
function, including those relevant to disease processes. Specific
areas covered by SYN: ·
Formation, regulation, maintenance, and dynamics of synaptic structure
and function in the central and peripheral nervous systems ·
Molecular neuronal mechanisms of endocytosis, exocytosis and membrane
recycling; protein assembly, folding and targeting; organelle, protein, and
mRNA localization and trafficking ·
Structure, function, modification, assembly and regulation of
cytoskeletal proteins and molecular motors; axonal and dendritic transport;
neuronal polarity, growth cones, and structural plasticity; cytoskeletal
pathology; the proteosome/ubiquitin system ·
Regulation of extracellular space; cell surface, extracellular matrix,
and transmembrane components, and their function; cell recognition SYN has
the following shared interests within the MDCN IRG:
· (1) NDBG and SYN share interests with respect to cytoskeletal pathology as related to neurodegenerative diseases. NDBG may be more appropriate if the emphasis is on the neurodegenerative aspects, but SYN may be more appropriate if the focus is more on cytoskeletal and/or trafficking issues. (2) NDBG and SYN also share an interest in the area of proteolytic processing and the proteosome/ubiquitin system. Studies that focus primarily on the role of these processes in neurodegeneration may be more appropriate for NDBG, while studies that focus primarily on the role of these processes in synaptic plasticity or trafficking may be more appropriate for SYN. ·
BSCT and SYN share an interest in the area of synaptic function.
Studies focused on the structure and function of signal transduction
molecules may be more appropriate for BSCT, while more general studies of
synaptic function may be more appropriate for SYN. ·
NTRC and SYN share interests with respect to synaptic function and the
cellular regulation of signal transducer molecules. NTRC may be more
appropriate if the focus is on signal transduction pathways and
electrophysiology, but SYN may be more appropriate for studies related to
fundamental cellular, biochemical and molecular mechanisms of neuronal cell
function. · MNPS
and SYN share an interest in the area of synaptic dynamics. MNPS may be more
appropriate for studies focusing on neurotransmitter release, regulation and
function, while SYN may be more appropriate for studies of exocytosis,
endocytosis, cellular trafficking and cytoskeletal interactions. · NDPR and SYN share interests in (1) the area of neuroplasticity. Studies focused on developmental and regenerative events, including process outgrowth and guidance, dendritic development, and synaptogenesis, may be more appropriate for NDPR. Studies focused on fundamental mechanisms of trafficking, basic cytoskeletal interactions, and synaptic function, including vesicular release, endocytosis, and receptor turnover may be more appropriate for SYN. (2) NDPR and SYN share interests in the study of cytoskeletal, cell membrane and extracellular matrix components. Those studies that focus on developmental events or repair mechanisms may be more appropriate for NDPR, while studies that focus on issues of trafficking or basic synaptic function may be more appropriate for SYN. SYN has
the following shared interests outside the MDCN IRG:
·
With the Cell Biology [CB]
IRG: (1) The study
sections of the CB IRG and SYN share an interest in general aspects of cell
biology. Studies that address molecules and basic cellular processes may be
appropriate for CB. Studies that address molecules and processes
characteristic of the nervous system may be appropriate for SYN. (2) An
additional area of shared interest is in vision research. Studies involving
the visual system that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the
retina and posterior portion of the eye may be appropriate for CB. Studies
involving the visual system that focus on fundamental aspects of trafficking,
cytoskeletal interactions and cell surface or extracellular matrix molecules
may be appropriate for SYN. ·
With the Genes, Genomes and
Genetics [GGG] IRG: The GGG IRG and SYN share interests
in neurogenetic studies. Where the primary focus is on genetic mechanisms,
emerging genetic techniques, or studies of genomic screening, linkage
analysis, and molecular genetic regulation, the GGG IRG may be more
appropriate. Where the primary focus is on neural mechanisms, neural outcomes
or neural diseases involving specific cytoskeletal or trafficking components
(e.g., Fragile-X syndrome), SYN may be more appropriate. ·
With
the Musculoskeletal, Oral and Skin Sciences [MOSS] IRG: The MOSS IRG
and SYN share an interest in skeletal muscle. MOSS may be more appropriate
for studies of clinical aspects of skeletal muscle, skeletal muscle
development and/or skeletal muscle force production, but SYN may be more
appropriate when the primary focus in on neural structure and function, or
the neuronal control of muscle force production. ·
With the Respiratory
Sciences [RES] IRG: The RES
IRG and SYN have broadly shared interests in the areas of (1)
neurotransmitters and (2) neural plasticity. Studies of neurotransmitters,
when in the context of understanding the central control of breathing, may be
more appropriate for RES, while studies focused on the broader understanding
of neurotransmitter function may be more appropriate for SYN. Studies of
respiratory neural plasticity, when in the context of response to hypoxia,
may be more appropriate for RES, while studies on broader aspects of neural
plasticity may be more appropriate for SYN. ·
With
the Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: The IFCN IRG and SYN share interests in cellular interactions involving cell
surface and extracellular matrix molecules. Studies of such cellular
interactions in the context of integrated circuits, systems, and behavior may
be appropriate for IFCN. Studies of cellular interactions in the context of
single cells may be appropriate for SYN. ·
With the Brain Disorders and
Clinical Neuroscience [BDCN] IRG: (1) The study sections of the BDCN IRG and SYN share interest in the
fundamental mechanisms of excitable cell function relevant to disease
processes in the nervous system. Applications focused primarily on the
disease or disease processes may be more appropriate for the BDCN IRG.
Studies that focus primarily on the basic underlying cellular or molecular
mechanisms may be more appropriate for SYN. (2) An additional area of shared
interest is in vision research. Studies involving the visual system that
require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the anterior portion of the
eye may be appropriate for the BDCN IRG. Studies involving the visual system
that focus on fundamental aspects of trafficking, cytoskeletal interactions
and cell surface or extracellular matrix molecules may be appropriate for
SYN. Neurodegeneration and the Biology of the Glia
Study Section [NDBG]
Formerly MDCN-2
The Neurodegeneration and the Biology of the Glia
[NDBG] Study Section reviews applications on neurodegeneration and
programmed cell death; mapping novel transcripts and functional analysis
of cloned gene products involved in cell injury, survival or death;
aspects of oxidative metabolism; glial cell biology and glial-neuronal
interactions [Schwann cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, microglia];
mechanisms of glial differentiation, metabolism, and myelination;
glial-mediated mechanisms of neuroinflammation and neuroimmune function
across the life span. The roles of genetic factors, trophic molecules and
extrinsic influences [including toxins, hormones, and addictive
substances] in these processes, and aspects of disease, injury, repair and
interventional strategies are considered. Specific areas covered by NDBG: · Regulation
of nerve cell death and cell survival; functions and mechanisms of action
of signaling molecules [such as neurotrophic factors, growth factors,
cytokines] and electrical activity in regulating cell survival;
intracellular signaling pathways leading to apoptosis, and their
intersection with the signal transduction pathways of survival. · Mechanisms
involved in nerve cell death due to aging, injury and environmental or
genetic factors, which could include excitotoxins, free radicals, and
neurodegenerative disease genes; excitotoxic, necrotic, and apoptotic
mechanisms; and studies of mechanisms relevant to the development of
neuroprotective strategies, such as the administration of exogenous growth
factors. · Oxidative
metabolism; special metabolic and energy demands of neurons and glia;
relevant aspects of mitochondrial function and localization; aspects of
mitochondrial dysfunction in disease states. · Glial cell
biology, neuroglial interactions, and myelination in the adult; growth
factors and receptors involved in neuroglial function; synthesis,
regulation and degradation of myelin; inductive signals for the
initiation, maintenance, and degradation of myelin; remyelination
processes · Glial response to injury or infection, and immune function; inductive signals, phagocytosis [microglia], activity of neuroimmune molecules and the innate immune response in the nervous system [e.g., cytokines, interleukins] NDBG has the following shared interests within the
MDCN IRG: · SYN and NDBG share an interest in cytoskeletal pathology as related to neurodegenerative diseases. SYN may be more appropriate if the focus is on cytoskeletal and/or trafficking issues, but NDBG may be more appropriate if the emphasis is on the neurodegenerative aspects. · (1) NCF and
NDBG share an interest in the area of cell death. Studies that focus on
the involvement of cell death in lineage restriction or patterning in the
developing nervous system may be more appropriate for NCF. Studies of
mechanisms of cell death per se or in response to injury or insult may be
more appropriate for NDBG. (2) NCF and NDBG share an interest in the area
of signaling molecules. Studies of signaling molecules [e.g., growth
factors] that affect multiple aspects of development may be appropriate
for NDBG when the principal focus is on the role of these molecules in
neuroprotection. (3) Another area of shared interest is in glial cell
biology and myelin formation. NCF may be more appropriate for studies of
glial cell differentiation and myelin formation during development, while
NDBG may be more appropriate for studies of general glial cell biology and
myelin formation in the adult. ·
MNPS and NDBG share interests in the areas of energy and oxidative
metabolism and excitotoxicity. MNPS may be more appropriate for studies
focused on aspects of oxidative metabolism and excitotoxic agents per se,
while NDBG may be more appropriate for studies focused on the energy
demands of neurons and glia, and studies of mitochondria function and
dysfunction, or the role of oxidative stress in neurodegeneration or
neuroprotection. ·
NDPR and NDBG share an interest in the areas of glial-neuronal
interactions and repair following injury. Studies focused on the role of
glia in axon outgrowth, nerve regeneration, and synapse formation and
studies examining spinal cord regeneration, peripheral nerve regeneration,
and the restoration of synaptic function may be appropriate for NDPR.
Studies focused on mechanisms of neurodegeneration, neuronal survival,
glial responses to injury, or myelination may be appropriate for NDBG. NDBG has the following shared interests outside the
MDCN IRG: · With the Genes, Genomes and Genetics [GGG] IRG: The GGG IRG and NDBG share interests in the studies of genomic screening, linkage analysis, and molecular genetic regulation. Where the primary focus is on genetic mechanisms or emerging genetic techniques, the GGG IRG may be more appropriate. Studies of genomic screening, linkage analysis, and molecular genetic regulation, where the primary focus is on neural mechanisms, outcomes or neural diseases, may be more appropriate for NDBG. · With the Cell Biology [CB] IRG: (1) The CB IRG and NDBG have shared interests in the area of cell death. The CB IRG may be more appropriate for applications in the context of general cell death, while NDBG may be more appropriate for applications that focus on the death of cells in the nervous system. (2) Another area of shared interest is in vision research. Applications involving the visual system that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the retina or posterior eye may be more appropriate for the CB IRG. Applications involving the visual system that are focused on fundamental aspects of neurodegeneration, oxidative metabolism, or excitotoxicity may be more appropriate for NDBG. ·
With the Biology of Development
and Aging [BDA] IRG: (1) The BDA IRG and NDBG share interests
in the area of cell death. The BDA IRG may be more appropriate for
applications in the broader context of cell death, while NDBG may be more
appropriate for applications that focus on the death of cells in the
nervous system. (2) The BDA IRG and NDBG also have shared interests in the
areas of cell cycle, aging and hormonal action. If the focus of the
application is re-entry into the cell cycle as a general event, the basic
cellular or molecular mechanisms, or overall protection, the application
may be more appropriate for the BDA IRG. If the focus of the application
is re-entry into the cell cycle as a neuropathological event, the cellular
or molecular mechanisms in the nervous system, or neuroprotection, the
application may be more appropriate for NDBG. · With the Immunology [IMM] IRG: The IMM IRG and NDBG have shared interests in the area of immune function. The IMM IRG may be more appropriate when the emphasis is on immune interactions or the innate immune response in general. NDBG may be more appropriate when the emphasis is on neuroimmune interactions or the innate immune response within the nervous system. · With the Respiratory Sciences [RES] IRG: The RES IRG and NDBG have shared interests in the area of neural plasticity. Studies of respiratory neural plasticity, when in the context of response to hypoxia, may be more appropriate for RES, while studies on broader aspects of neural plasticity may be more appropriate for NDBG. · With the Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: The IFCN IRG and NDBG share an interest in the neuronal basis of behavior; neuroendocrine and neuroimmune function; rhythms and oscillatory behavior; sensory systems; and motor function. Applications focused on these issues in the context of integrated circuits, systems, and behavior may be more appropriate for IFCN. Applications focused on these issues at the cellular or molecular level may be more appropriate for NDBG. · With the Brain Disorders and Clinical Neuroscience
[BDCN] IRG: (1) Study sections of the BDCN IRG share
interests with NDBG in pathogenesis, injury, neurodegeneration and
neuroimmune function. Applications may be more appropriate for the BDCN
IRG if the context is disease while NDBG may be more appropriate if the
primary focus is on the basic underlying cellular and molecular
mechanisms. (2) The BDCN IRG and NDBG share interest in the analysis of
cloned gene products. Initial mapping and cloning of human disease genes
that affect the nervous system may be more appropriate for the BDCN IRG,
while NDBG may be more appropriate if the context is basic science. (3)
Another area of shared interest is in the area of vision research.
Applications involving the visual system that require specialized
knowledge or appreciation of the anterior portion of the eye may be more
appropriate for the BDCN IRG. Applications involving the visual system
that are focused on fundamental aspects of neurodegeneration, oxidative
metabolism, or excitotoxicity may be more appropriate for NDBG. Biophysics of Synapses, Channels and Transporters
Study Section [BSCT]
Formerly MDCN-3
The Biophysics of Synapses, Channels, and Transporters
[BSCT] Study Section reviews applications on signal transduction in nerve,
muscle, and other excitable cells, with the primary focus on the structure
and function of the transducers themselves. This includes basic studies of
subunit structure, molecular dynamics, gating and selectivity, and
second-messenger cascades. General approaches may include molecular and
structural biology, pharmacology, biophysics, electrophysiology, and
protein chemistry, imaging and labeling techniques. Emphasis is on
fundamental molecular mechanisms, including those relevant to disease
processes. Specific areas covered by BSCT: · Signal
transduction molecules; voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels;
neuromodulators; gap junctions and connexins; sensory transducers;
transduction molecules in muscle, glia, and other non-neuronal cells · Model
systems; relevant studies in in vivo, tissue slices, tissue culture;
molecular function in transgenic cells, cell lines, oocytes, and other
expression systems; relevant approaches using in vitro systems; artificial
lipid bilayers · Protein
structure and function; patch-clamp and whole-cell electrophysiology;
structural biology; molecular modeling; constructs altered through
molecular genetic and chemical means; membrane interactions;
crystallography and NMR ·
Voltage-dependent, mechano- and ligand-gating, ionic selectivity
and permeation; activation, inactivation, pharmacology, and other aspects
of molecular regulation · Coupling to second messenger pathways, including G-proteins and other enzymatic effectors; cyclic nucleotides and lipid metabolites; relevant enzyme pathways [kinases, phosphatases, phospholipases] BSCT has the following shared interests within the
MDCN IRG: · SYN and
BSCT share an interest in the area of synaptic function. SYN may be more
appropriate for more general studies of synaptic function, while studies
focused on the structure and function of signal transduction molecules may
be more appropriate for BSCT. · NTRC and
BSCT share an interest in the area of signal transduction. NTRC may be
more appropriate for studies of cellular electrophysiology, synthesis and
regulation of the transduction molecules, and most studies involving
calcium pathways, while BSCT may be more appropriate for molecular,
structural, and biophysical studies. · MNPS and BSCT share an interest in the area of signal transduction, especially with respect to second messenger pathways. MNPS may be more appropriate for neurochemical and pharmacological studies while BSCT may be more appropriate for molecular, structural, and biophysical studies. BSCT has the following shared interests outside the
MDCN IRG: · With the Biological Chemistry and Macromolecular Biophysics [BCMB] IRG: The BCMB IRG and BSCT have shared interests in structural biology. BCMB may be more appropriate when the focus is on the structure/function of cell and model membranes, channels, receptors, proteins, etc. in general; however, BSCT may be more appropriate when the focus is on the structure/function of cell and model membranes, channels, receptors, proteins, etc. in a neuronal context. · With the Cell Biology [CB] IRG: (1) The CB IRG
and BSCT share interests in second messenger pathways. The CB IRG may be
appropriate for studies of kinase/phosphatase pathways and the regulation
of cell growth, but BSCT may be appropriate for studies of
kinase/phosphatase pathways and the regulation of cell growth involving
nervous system-specific proteins or functions unique to the nervous
system. (2) The CB
IRG and BSCT share an interest in the area of gap junctions and connexins.
The CB IRG may be more appropriate for studies emphasizing the cell
biology and biochemistry of gap junctions and connexins, while BSCT may be
more appropriate for studies emphasizing the electrophysiological and
biophysical aspects of gap junctions, particularly if the focus is on
cells of the nervous system. (3) The CB IRG and BSCT share an interest in
muscle research. The CB IRG may be more appropriate for studies focused on
muscle structure and contractile proteins, while BSCT may be more
appropriate for studies focused on signal transduction in neurons and
synapses. (4) Another shared interest is in the area of vision research.
Studies that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the retina
or posterior portion of the eye may be more appropriate for the CB IRG.
Studies that are focused on the molecular, structural, and biophysical
aspects of signal transduction molecules, or on voltage-gated or
ligand-gated ion channels may be more appropriate for BSCT. · With the Cardiovascular Sciences [CVS] IRG:
The CVS IRG and BSCT share an interest in cardiac muscle. CVS may be more
appropriate for studies of clinical aspects of cardiac muscle, especially
in the context of heart disease, but BSCT may be more appropriate for
studies of the signal transduction molecules and mechanisms, especially in
a biophysical context. · With the Musculoskeletal, Oral and Skin Sciences [MOSS] IRG: The MOSS IRG and BSCT share an interest in skeletal muscle. MOSS may be more appropriate for studies of clinical aspects of skeletal muscle and/or skeletal muscle force production, but BSCT may be more appropriate when the primary focus in on neural structure and function and/or neuronal control of muscle force production. · With the Digestive Sciences [DIG] IRG: The DIG IRG and BSCT share an interest in gastro-intestinal signal transduction. Studies focusing on drugs and signal transduction may be appropriate for DIG; however, studies focusing on general neuroactive drugs and neuronal signal transduction may be more appropriate for BSCT. · With the Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: (1) The IFCN IRG and BSCT share an interest in signal transduction. The IFCN IRG may be more appropriate for studies of transduction in the context of integrated circuits, systems, and behavior, including neuroendocrine and neuroimmune function; rhythms and oscillatory behavior, and sensory and motor function. BSCT may be more appropriate for studies of transduction at the molecular and cellular level, including second messenger pathways. (2) The IFCN IRG and BSCT share an interest in studies of long term potentiation [LTP] and long term depression [LTD]. The IFCN IRG may be more appropriate for studies of LTP and LTD in the context of learning, but BSCT may be more appropriate for studies of the biophysics of ion channels in LTP/LTD. · With the Brain Disorders and Clinical Neuroscience
[BDCN] IRG: (1) Study sections of the BDCN IRG share interests
with BSCT in neurological disorders and injury. If a study involves
research in neurological disease or injuries, the BDCN IRG may be more
appropriate, but if the study involves fundamental cellular and molecular
mechanisms in signal transduction, BSCT may be more appropriate. (2)
Another shared interest is in vision research. Studies that require
specialized knowledge or appreciation of the anterior portion of the eye
may be more appropriate for the BDCN IRG. Studies that are focused on the
molecular, structural, and biophysical aspects of signal transduction
molecules, or on voltage-gated or ligand-gated ion channels may be more
appropriate for BSCT. Neurotransporters, Receptors, Channels and Calcium
Signaling Study Section [NTRC]
Formerly MDCN-4
The Neurotransporters, Receptors, Channels and Calcium
Signaling [NTRC] Study Section reviews studies of signal transduction
pathways in neurons, muscles, and other excitable cells with particular
emphasis on cellular regulation and physiology. This includes studies of
calcium physiology, regulation of ionic gradients, ion pumps and molecular
transporters, ion channels, and synthesis and regulation of transduction
molecules. Studies may integrate molecular, cellular,
electrophysiological, and imaging approaches to examine molecular
regulation, transduction, biochemical changes, cellular physiology, and
functional consequences. Emphasis is on fundamental cellular mechanisms,
including those relevant to disease processes. Specific areas covered by NTRC: · Intracellular
regulation of calcium; calcium channels, calcium storage, homeostasis, and
buffering; calcium as a second messenger; electrophysiology; calcium
imaging · Ion pumps
and molecular transporters; electrochemical coupling; maintenance of ionic
gradients; membrane properties and electrodynamics; imaging studies · Ion
channels and neurotransmitter receptors; electrophysiological studies
within the context of cellular physiology; interactions with second
messenger systems; regulation and modulation of ion channels and
receptors; ionotropic and metabotropic receptors · Synthesis,
insertion and regulation of transduction molecules; genetic regulation,
transcription/translation, protein modification, localization, assembly,
turnover, and degradation; local regulation of synaptic structure and
function [i.e., insertion, accumulation, localization] · Muscle cell electrophysiology and propagation of electrical signals NTRC has the following shared interests within the
MDCN IRG: · SYN and
NTRC share interests in the area of synaptic function and the cellular
regulation of signal transducer molecules. If the focus is on fundamental
cellular, biochemical and molecular mechanisms of neuronal cell function,
the application may be more appropriate for SYN. NTRC may be more
appropriate for studies focusing on electrophysiology and signal
transduction pathways. · BSCT and
NTRC share interests in the area of signal transduction. NTRC may be more
appropriate for studies of cellular electrophysiology and the synthesis
and regulation of the transduction molecules, and most studies involving
calcium pathways, while BSCT may be more appropriate for molecular,
structural, and biophysical studies. · MNPS and
NTRC have significant shared interests in the area of signal transduction,
especially with respect to second-messenger pathways. NTRC may be more
appropriate for studies of cellular electrophysiology [especially
involving calcium], while MNPS may be more appropriate for neurochemical
and pharmacological studies. · NDPR and NTRC share an interest in the plasticity of synaptic connections. NDPR may be more appropriate when the emphasis is predominantly on the cellular, biochemical and molecular aspects of synaptic plasticity, while NTRC may be more appropriate when the emphasis is more on cellular electrophysiology [especially involving calcium]. NTRC has the following shared interests outside the
MDCN IRG: · With the Cell Biology [CB] IRG: (1) The CB IRG and NTRC share interests in contractile proteins and muscle research. The CB IRG may be more appropriate for general cellular studies of muscle structure and contractile proteins; NTRC may be more appropriate for electrophysiological studies of signal transduction. (2) The CB IRG also shares interests with NTRC in the area of vision research. Applications that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the retina or the posterior portion of the eye may be more appropriate for the CB IRG; applications that focus on fundamental aspects of molecular transporters, ion pumps, and cellular electrophysiology, particularly if they involve calcium, may be more appropriate for NTRC. · With the Cardiovascular Sciences [CVS]
IRG:
The CVS IRG
and NTRC share interests in cardiac muscle. CVS may be more appropriate
for clinical aspects of cardiac muscle, especially in the context of heart
disease, but NTRC may be more appropriate for basic electrophysiological
studies. CVS may also be appropriate for review of skeletal muscle
excitation-coupling [E-C coupling]. · With the Musculoskeletal, Oral and Skin Sciences [MOSS] IRG: The MOSS IRG and NTRC share an interest in skeletal muscle. MOSS may be more appropriate for studies of clinical aspects of skeletal muscle and/or skeletal muscle force production, but NTRC may be more appropriate when the primary focus in on neural structure and function and/or neuronal control of muscle force production. · With the Digestive Sciences [DIG] IRG: The DIG IRG and
NTRC share an interest in gastro-intestinal signal transduction. Studies
focusing on signal transduction and neuroendocrine peptides may be more
appropriate for DIG; however, studies focusing on neuroendocrine peptides
or general neuronal signal transduction may be more appropriate for
NTRC. · With the Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: (1) The IFCN IRG and NTRC share interests in signal transduction and transport in the areas of the neuronal basis of behavior; neuroendocrine and neuroimmune function; rhythms and oscillatory behavior; sensory function; and motor function. The IFCN IRG may be more appropriate for such signal transduction and transport studies when the context is on integrated circuits, systems, and behavior. However, NTRC may be more appropriate for studies of transport or transduction molecules at the cellular electrophysiological level. (2) The IFCN IRG and NTRC also share interests in long-term potentiation [LTP] and long-term depression [LTD]. Applications involving LTP and LTD in learning may be assigned to the IFCN IRG, but applications involving the cellular and molecular basis of LTP/LTD may be assigned to NTRC, especially if they involve intracellular calcium signaling or physiology. · With the Brain Disorders and Clinical Neuroscience [BDCN] IRG: (1) The BDCN IRG shares interests with NTRC in neurological disorders. If a study involves research in neural disorders and injury, BDCN may be more appropriate; however, if the study involves fundamental cellular mechanisms in signal transduction, NTRC may be more appropriate. (2) BDCN also shares interests with NTRC in the area of vision research. Applications that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the anterior portion of the eye may be more appropriate for the BDCN IRG; while applications that focus on fundamental aspects of molecular transporters, ion pumps, and cellular electrophysiology, particularly if they involve calcium, may be more appropriate for NTRC. Molecular Neuropharmacology and Signaling Study
Section [MNPS]
Formerly MDCN-5
The Molecular Neuropharmacology and Signaling [MNPS]
Study Section reviews projects on neuronal and muscle signal transduction
and neurotransmitters with a particular focus on neurochemical and
pharmacological mechanisms. This includes studies of ligand interactions,
neuromodulator interactions, neurotransmitter metabolism, and the
development of therapeutic compounds. Emphasis is on fundamental cellular
mechanisms, including those relevant to disease processes. Specific areas covered by MNPS: ·
Pharmacological and neurochemical studies of ligand activation,
G-protein coupling, and signal transduction cascades; studies of receptor
agonists and antagonists; development of experimental and therapeutic
approaches ·
Neurotransmitter and neuromodulator pathways; enzyme function and
regulation; regulatory mechanisms; metabolic plasticity within the cell;
synaptic dynamics [release, diffusion, inactivation, re-uptake] ·
Modulators of synaptic function, including growth factors,
neurotrophins, neuropeptides, neurosteroids and neurotoxins;
neurophysiology and neuropharmacology of modulatory mechanisms · Ligand activation of second messenger pathways; pharmacological and neurochemical studies of ligand activation of G-proteins and other effectors MNPS has the following shared interests within the
MDCN IRG: ·
SYN and MNPS share an interest in the area of synaptic dynamics.
SYN may be more appropriate for studies of exocytosis, endocytosis and
cellular trafficking while MNPS may be more appropriate for studies
focusing on neurotransmitter release, regulation and function. ·
NDBG and MNPS share interests in the areas of energy and oxidative
metabolism and excitotoxicity. NDBG may be more appropriate for studies
focused on the energy demands of neurons and glia, mitochondria function
and dysfunction, and the role of oxidative stress in neurodegeneration or
neuroprotection, while MNPS may be more appropriate for studies focused on
oxidative metabolism and excitotoxic agents. ·
BSCT and MNPS have significant shared interest in the area of
signal transduction, especially with respect to second messenger pathways.
BSCT may be more appropriate for molecular, structural, biochemical and
biophysical studies, while MNPS may be more appropriate for neurochemical
and pharmacological studies of signal transduction. · NTRC and MNPS have significant shared interests in the area of signal transduction. NTRC may be more appropriate for studies of cellular electrophysiology, the synthesis and regulation of transduction molecules, and most studies involving calcium pathways, while MNPS may be more appropriate for the neurochemical and pharmacological aspects of signal transduction. MNPS has the following shared interests outside the
MDCN IRG: · With the Biological Chemistry and Macromolecular
Biophysics [BCMB] IRG: (1) The BCMB IRG and MNPS share interests in the
area of receptor agonist/antagonist studies. If the focus is chemical
synthesis of these molecules, BCMB may be more appropriate. If the focus
is receptor activation/inactivation in neural systems, MNPS may be more
appropriate. (2) The BCMB IRG and MNPS also share interest in the area of
molecular pharmacology and medicinal chemistry/drug design. If the focus
is primarily on molecular pharmacological/pharmacokinetic or medicinal
chemistry/drug design per se, the BCMB IRG may be more appropriate. If the
focus is on molecular pharmacology/pharmacokinetics or medicinal
chemistry/drug design in the context of agents affecting neural systems,
MNPS may be more appropriate. · With the Cell Biology [CB] IRG: (1) The CB IRG and MNPS share an interest in signal transduction and second messenger pathways. The CB IRG may be more appropriate for studies of kinase/phosphatase pathways and the regulation of cell growth, while MNPS may be more appropriate for studies of phosphorylation/dephosphorylation of brain-specific proteins or functions unique to the nervous system. (2) Another shared interest is in vision research. Applications that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the posterior portion of the eye or the retina may be more appropriate for the CB IRG, while applications that focus on neurochemical and pharmacological aspects of signal transduction may be more appropriate for MNPS. ·
With the Cardiovascular Sciences [CVS]
IRG:
The CVS IRG and MNPS share an interest in cardiac muscle. CVS may
be more appropriate for clinical research on cardiac muscle, especially in
the context of heart disease. MNPS may be more appropriate for
neurochemical and pharmacological studies of signal transduction molecules
in neuronal systems controlling the heart. · With the Endocrinology, Metabolism, Nutrition and Reproductive Sciences [EMNR] IRG: The EMNR IRG and MNPS have broadly shared interests in the areas of neuropeptide/receptor interactions, second messengers and effectors, and neuropeptide processing enzymes. Studies of receptors for hypothalamic releasing or inhibiting factors or neuropeptide processing may be assigned to the EMNR IRG; studies of such receptors may be assigned to MNPS when the focus is on signaling that is specific to neurons/glia. · With the Digestive Sciences [DIG] IRG: The DIG IRG and MNPS share interests in gastro-intestinal signal transduction. Studies on signal transduction by neuroendocrine peptides may be more appropriate for the DIG IRG when the focus is on the actions or disposition of nutrients. Studies on such signal transduction may be more appropriate for MNPS when the focus is on signaling that is specific to neurons/glia. ·
With the Respiratory Sciences
[RES] IRG: The RES IRG and MNPS have broadly shared interests in
the areas of (1) neurotransmitters and (2) neural plasticity. Studies of
neurotransmitters, when in the context of understanding the central
control of breathing, may be more appropriate for RES, while studies
focused on the broader understanding of neurotransmitter function may be
more appropriate for MNPS. Studies of respiratory neural plasticity, when
in the context of response to hypoxia, may be more appropriate for RES,
while studies on broader aspects of neural plasticity may be more
appropriate for MNPS. · With the Integrative, Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: (1) Study sections of the IFCN IRG and MNPS share interest in signal transduction. The IFCN IRG may be more appropriate for signal transduction studies involving integrated circuits, systems, and behavior, while MNPS may be more appropriate for studies involving transduction molecules and G-protein coupled receptors, with a particular emphasis on neurochemical and pharmacological approaches. (2) Another area of shared interest is in long-term potentiation [LTP] and long-term depression [LTD]. The IFCN IRG may be more appropriate for applications involving LTP and LTD in learning, but MNPS may be more appropriate for applications involving the pharmacological basis of LTP/LTD. · With the Brain Disorders and Clinical Neuroscience [BDCN] IRG: (1) The BDCN IRG and MNPS share interest in neurological disease processes. For studies focused on basic and clinical research in neural disorders and injury, BDCN may be more appropriate. For studies focused on signal transduction, G-protein coupling, and other fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the neural disorders or injuries, MNPS may be more appropriate. (2) The BDCN IRG and MNPS also share interest in the area of vision research. Applications that require specialized knowledge or appreciation of the anterior portion of the eye may be more appropriate for the BDCN IRG, while applications that focus on neurochemical and pharmacological aspects of signal transduction may be more appropriate for MNPS. Neurogenesis and Cell Fate Study Section [NCF]
Formerly MDCN-6
The Neurogenesis and Cell Fate [NCF] Study Section
reviews applications concerned with the initial formation of cells in the
developing nervous system, as well as cell specification, determination,
and differentiation. Areas to be included are: regulation of the cell
cycle; induction of neural tissue; brain region specification and
patterning; stem cell and progenitor cell proliferation, migration, and
phenotypic determination; development and regulation of circadian rhythms
and oscillatory processes; and neuronal and glial differentiation.
Emphasis is on fundamental mechanisms underlying these processes in normal
development, and in responses to disease, injury, and extrinsic factors,
including circadian events and prenatal exposure to drugs. Specific areas covered by NCF: · Regulation of the cell cycle; mechanisms of growth arrest and re-initiation of cell division and differentiation; initiation and regulation of circadian and oscillatory processes · Fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms of neural induction in normal development, including transcriptional regulation and signaling pathways; the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which the embryonic neural ectoderm acquires the characteristics of adult brain regions, including regionalization of gene transcription, cell-cell interactions, migration, circadian rhythmicity, and secreted signals that influence these events; effects of extrinsic factors, such as teratogens and drugs on these processes · Neuronal and glial progenitors; cellular and molecular mechanisms of stem cell and progenitor cell induction, proliferation, migration, and phenotypic restriction; the influence of aging, extrinsic factors, disease and injury on these processes; characterization of stem cells for the purpose of repair following developmental and degenerative disease and injury · Cell fate specification; effects of cell lineage, cell-intrinsic components [such as transcription factors], cell-cell interactions [before, during and after migration], secreted factors [such as growth factors, cytokines, hormones, and neurotransmitters], and drugs on the phenotypic determination of neurons and non-neuronal cells, particularly glia · Neuronal and glial cell differentiation and specialization; transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of the acquisition of the differentiated cellular and molecular characteristics of neurons and glia, including cell morphology, excitability, growth factor responsiveness and expression of specific neurotransmitters and their receptors; cell-cell interactions, among neurons and non-neuronal cells, such as glia and other cells participating in the development of the nervous system, leading to cell specializations such as myelin, and the development of specialized structures like the blood-brain barrier · Circadian rhythm and other oscillatory processes; cell and molecular genetics producing rhythmicity, genomic mechanisms, pathways, transcripts, intracellular pathways, cell cultures, mutagenesis, regulation of clock-controlled genes, and the modulation of oscillatory functions NCF has the following shared interests within the MDCN
IRG: ·
SYN and NCF share an interest in the area of neuroplasticity.
Applications dealing with fundamental mechanisms of neuroplasticity or
with cytoskeletal functions and cell surface molecules may be more
appropriate for SYN, while studies of plasticity associated with the
establishment, maintenance, and reorganization of synaptic connections may
be more appropriate for NCF. |