Presenter(s): Allison Hoslett
Faculty Mentor(s): Alexandra Tallafuss & Phil Washbourne
Poster 71
Session: Sciences
Research for neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social deficits, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, has helped increase the quality of life in individuals and families afflicted by these diagnoses. This research aims to understand the neuronal network underlying social behavior in the developing brains of zebrafish (Danio rerio), an experimental animal model that shares relevant cellular pathways and social behaviors that are conserved between vertebrate animals. The neuronal circuit involved in social behavior is poorly understood. We are using genetic and behavioral research techniques to identify populations of neurons that are necessary to recognize biological motion, an important part of social behavior. We are combining behavioral assays and genetic tools that allow for cell tracking and targeted cell death using the nitroreductase/metronidazole system. After targeted ablation of neurons in different areas of the brain, we measure the social behavior of individual zebrafish larvae. We do this by projecting dots that imitate the presence and movement of another fish, tracking the fish’s reaction with these dots, which is then calculated into a social index. We were able to identify neuronal populations that, after ablation, severely reduce social behavior. Using this approach will allow us to identify a more complete picture of how the social circuit works and which neuronal populations are involved. Unraveling the social circuit will allow early identification and more targeted treatment of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders that are characterized by impairments in typical social behaviors.