Exploring GluR2-Interacting Proteins in Caenorhabditis elegans

Abstract

The expression of ?-3-hydroxy-5-Methlisoxaole-4-Propionic Acid Receptors (AMPARs) on the post-synaptic region of a neuron has direct impacts on many physiological functions of the brain, including learning and memory. Because AMPARs are Qirst assembled in the endoplasmic reticulum and later transported to the post-synaptic region of a neuron, understanding the mechanisms involved in AMPAR-trafQicking is crucial to understanding a variety of neuronal functions. The goal of this research was to investigate the role of the putative AMPAR-trafQicking proteins DLI-1, VDAC-1, SVOP-2, and DCN-2 on AMPAR-mediated behavior in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Unfortunately, several technical issues prevented development of the constructs and behavioral assays needed to fully accomplish the goals of this study. Therefore, I am unable to discourse on the roles of DLI-1, VDAC-1, SVOP-2, and DCN-2 in AMPAR-mediated behavior in C. elegans.