Thesis supervisor: Zoltán Karádi
Location of studies (in Hungarian): PTE ÁOK Pécs, Szigeti u. 12. Abbreviation of location of studies: ÁOK
Description of the research topic:
The research program summarizes our multiple neurophysiological experimental plans that aim to provide functional characterization of the glucose-monitoring (GM) neuronal network involved in the closely interrelated regulation of feeding, metabolism and the maintenance of body weight. To realize these plans, extracellular single neuron recording, neurochemical-biochemical and behavioral experiments will be conducted in laboratory rats and rhesus monkeys that are phylogenetically close to the human being. The project targets directly and indirectly interconnected structures of the limbic forebrain. By employment of the multibarreled microelectrophoretic technique as well as by local intracerebral microinjection of chemicals influencing or destroying the GM neurons, it is possible, on the one hand, to achieve a broad functional characterization of the GM neurons, on the other hand, to elucidate the homeostatic significance of these chemosensory cells. Successful accomplishment of the program serves the better understanding of the central regulation of feeding and metabolism. It is also expected to learn more about related diseases (e.g. obesity, diabetes mellitus) which are supposed to develop on the basis of pathological alteration of the above processes, and which cause increasing problem in the modern societies.