Hazel Himelstein Rose Hills
Anticipatory behavior to cued outcomes in Bipolar mouse models
Bipolar Disorder is a human condition characterized by depressive and manic phases and disruption of sleep and circadian rhythms. This project investigates how the disruption of circadian cellular processes in the body’s principal pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), affects circadian modulation of Pavlovian behavior in mice. To investigate this, we test mice at three time points throughout their active phase by measuring their licking behavior and dopamine release in response to different odor cues and the delivery of a reward or a negative outcome. We hypothesize that in control animals, licking behavior and dopamine will be modulated by circadian rhythms so that it is reduced in anticipation of sleep at the end of the active phase, while in SCN-disrupted mice, this modulation will be absent. We hypothesize this failure to modulate behavior in anticipation of sleep could be related to the development of mania in humans. The data could provide insight into circadian regulation of motivated behavior in Bipolar Disorder and guide treatment options.
Message To Sponsor
I am so excited for the experience I am able to have this summer because of this scholarship! I have been looking forward to doing full-time research about an interest of mine, and looking at the neuroscience of Bipolar Disorder with human applications is aligned with my goal of exploring mental health conditions and treatments in my future career. I am certain that the skills I gain this summer will be essential for my growth as a researcher, student, and scientist.