Defense Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Biochemistry
First Advisor
Sandeep Singh
Second Advisor
Melissa McGinn Greer
Third Advisor
Christopher Green
Abstract
Astrocytes, critical glial cells in the CNS, play a vital role in synaptic function and neuronal health. Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) regulates astrocyte morphology and function. This study examines the impact of astrocyte-specific S1PR1 knockout (KO) on astrocyte morphology and synaptic connectivity in the somatosensory cortex. S1PR1 KO mice showed increased astrocyte volume and dendritic complexity in cortical layers 2-3 (L2-3), but reduced complexity in layers 4-5 (L4-5). Synaptic marker analysis revealed higher PSD95, VGLUT1, and VGLUT2 expression and colocalization in L2-3 of S1PR1 KO mice, indicating enhanced synaptic density and altered transmission. Increased SPARCL1 expression in KO mice underscores S1PR1’s role in synaptogenesis. These findings highlight S1PR1's layer-specific regulatory roles in astrocyte growth and synaptic architecture, with implications for CNS development and neurodegenerative diseases. Future research should explore S1PR1-mediated astrocyte functions and their effects on neural circuits.
Rights
© Zeik Hunain Tariq
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
8-8-2024
Included in
Biochemistry Commons, Cell Biology Commons, Developmental Neuroscience Commons, Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience Commons, Molecular Biology Commons, Other Neuroscience and Neurobiology Commons