Research Methods in Life Sciences Commons^™

Epithelial Membrane Protein 3 (Emp3b) Is A Novel Regulator Of Sympathetic Nervous System Development In Zebrafish., Jessica M. White

Theses and Dissertations

Notable progress has been made in understanding the development of the neural crest (NC). Neural crest cells (NCCs) can be divided into 4-5 subpopulations. A major lineage among trunk NC derivatives are sympathoadrenal (SA) cells, which give rise to the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Trunk NCCs follow a ventromedial migration pathway where signals derived from the dorsal aorta instruct migrating NCCs to a SA cell fate. Defects in NC development can result in syndromes known as neurocristopathies. Neuroblastoma is one of the most common forms of pediatric cancer affecting nearly 800 infants each year in the United States (Takita et …

The Impact Of Hiv-1 Tat And Morphine On Spatial Distribution Of Drugs In The Brain., Austin M. Jones

Theses and Dissertations

Despite combination antiretroviral therapy effectively suppressing HIV within the periphery, the central nervous system (CNS) remains affected by the virus. Approximately half of people living with HIV will experience HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) or neuroHIV. Concurrent opioid use exacerbates neuroHIV by promoting neuroinflammation, viral replication, and potentially altering the antiretroviral concentrations within the brain.

Using a transgenic mouse that expresses the HIV-1 Tat protein, we examined the effects of Tat and morphine on antiretroviral accumulation and distribution and the effects of Tat on morphine accumulation within the brain using infrared matrix-assisted laser desorption electrospray ionization with mass spectrometry imaging (IR-MALDESI-MSI). …