Exploring neurogenesis in crustaceans

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Biology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons, is crucial for learning, memory, and neurological disease research.
• Environmental factors are known to influence neurogenesis, but experimental models for students are limited.
• Invertebrate models, like crayfish, offer advantages for studying neurogenesis due to simpler nervous systems and identifiable neurons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a student laboratory exercise to experimentally investigate the regulation of neurogenesis by environmental factors.
• To provide a hands-on learning experience for students to explore neurogenesis in a model organism.
• To demonstrate the conservation of neurogenesis mechanisms across species, from invertebrates to mammals.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the crayfish model system for studying neurogenesis.
• Employed fluorescently-labeled BrdU (bromodeoxyuridine) to identify and quantify neuronal cell division.
• Employed conventional or confocal microscopy for visualizing and quantifying labeled neurons.

Main Results:

• The lab successfully allowed students to experimentally examine how environmental factors alter the rate of neurogenesis.
• Student-designed experiments provided insights into the regulation of neurogenesis.
• The methodology proved effective for quantifying neuronal cell division in crayfish.

Conclusions:

• The designed lab is an effective tool for teaching students about neurogenesis and its regulation.
• Invertebrate models like crayfish are valuable for studying neurogenesis in an accessible educational setting.
• This approach facilitates discovery-oriented learning and can be expanded to explore various factors influencing neurogenesis.