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The goals
of this core are to enhance the neuroscience-related projects currently
being undertaken by PSM investigators and to stimulate further
neuroscience research through enhanced scientific interactions between
basic scientists at PSM. In addition, this neuroscience core facility
will also serve as a tool for attracting strong new recruits.
Due to the multidisciplinary nature of neuroscience research, this core
will enhance a variety of ongoing research projects at the Ponce School
of Medicine. For example, two projects examining how mental stress can
exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease and endometriosis will benefit
from the core. In addition, a project designed to examine the neuronal
effects of HIV-induced proteins will be extended to examine the
behavioral effects of these proteins in the facilities provided by the
core. Aim 1 is to establish a central core facility with the equipment
necessary to analyze the effects of different treatments on animal
behavior. This laboratory will facilitate the behavioral-testing needs
of five currently funded projects, including projects from three former
RCMI PIs and one current RCMI PI at the Ponce School of Medicine. In
fulfilling Aim 2, we will provide technical support and consultation in
basic behavioral experiment design and data analysis. The focus of Aim 3
is to encourage the development of new projects and collaborations
between PSM investigators with the goal of translating basic research to
more clinical applications through seminars and workshops.
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