Assoc. Prof. Nihan Carcak Yilmaz, WP2 leader of GEMSTONE, has recently completed a successful short visit to Lund University (ULUND). Her visit aimed to transfer knowledge in experimental techniques to implement WP2 (Research on genetically engineered models to understand neurodevelopmental aspects of brain disorders) experiments and increase the collaboration between ULUND and Acibadem University (ACU).
As a part of the visit, Dr. Carcak Yilmaz received training on various experimental techniques, including chemogenetic methods, microelectrode array (MEA), and genotyping procedures for Drd1a mice. She also gained valuable experience in the use of electronic notebooks.
The main focus of Dr. Carcak Yilmaz's visit was to implement experiments related to Tasks 2.2 and 2.3:
Task 2.2. Chemogenetic modulation: GEMSTONE will modulate deep cortical layer activity with chemogenetic methods by using Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs) in Drd1a-Cre mice a selective line that targets Cre-expression to a subpopulation of layer 6b neurons.
Task 2.3. Monitoring cortical neurodevelopment of deep cortical layer neurons in GAERS: Time domain changes of cortical circuitry and cortical projections in coronal brain sections derived from GAERS rats at postnatal (P)0, P7, P21 and adults will be evaluated.
Dr. Carcak Yilmaz's visit to ULUND was successful, with no significant challenges encountered. Her short visit is expected to contribute significantly to her personal academic development, and she is eager to share her newly acquired knowledge with colleagues at ULUND. She hopes that her visit will lead to new collaborations that will benefit the GEMSTONE Project.
GEMSTONE aims to develop novel treatments for drug addiction using gene therapy. The project brings together a team of experts from universities and research institutions across Europe to work together towards this goal. Dr. Carcak Yilmaz's short visit to ULUND is just one example of the collaboration and knowledge-sharing that is happening within GEMSTONE.