CD40 Influences Idiosyncratic Regional Oscillation Across The Cortex-Hippocampal Axis

Author: Gregory Hubbard
Program: Medicine
Mentor(s): Albert Musto, MD, PhD
Poster #: 151
Session/Time: A/2:40 p.m.

Abstract

Introduction:

The role of CD40/CD40L receptor ligand complex has been classically understood as a mediator of B- cell activation in response to infection. However, recent research has highlighted its role in non- infectious neurological aberration. In-vivo rodent models suggest that downregulation of CD40 significantly attenuates neuronal excitability within the hippocampus. Because the hippocampus is a highly organized tri-synaptic circuit, a spatial understanding of regional network alterations may further elucidate the electrophysiological role of CD40 in vivo.

Methods:

A silicon probe containing multielectrodes was implanted across the cortex-hippocampal axis in adult male CD40 knockout mice (CD40KO) and wild type mice (WT). Electrical activity was recorded across specified channels during normal behavior and network stimulation (PTZ). Signal morphology and frequency analysis was then conducted using signal analysis software.

Results:

The preliminary data demonstrates that CD40 deficiency modulates electrophysiological activity distinctively across the cortex-hippocampal axis. While a pattern of overall attenuation is seen in all channels, reactive frequency band oscillation differed across a dorsal/ventral axis compared to wildtype.

Conclusion:

The hippocampus is not a homogenous structure. Distributed systems within the hippocampus facilitate circuitry and connectivity in both independent and integrated network mechanisms. Following CD40 attenuation, there are regional discrepancies in hippocampal neural oscillation.