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MeCP2 Expression in a Rat Model of Risky Decision Making
Jay V Deng1, Caitlin A Orsini2, Kristy G Shimp3
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida College of Medicine, United States; Center for Addiction Research and Education, University of Florida, United States.
Neuroscience
|November 21, 2017
Summary
Lower levels of Methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) correlate with increased risk-taking behaviors in rats. This epigenetic factor
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Neuropsychiatric disorders often involve abnormal decision-making under risk.
- The molecular underpinnings of risk-taking behavior are not fully understood.
- Methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is an epigenetic regulator of gene transcription.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of MeCP2 expression in modulating risk-taking behaviors.
- To explore the relationship between MeCP2 levels and choices involving potential punishment.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Risky Decision-making Task (RDT) in rats.
- Assessed MeCP2 expression via immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry in brain regions like the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and striatum.
- Measured phosphorylated MeCP2 (pMeCP2) at Ser421 to indicate neuronal activity.
Main Results:
- Inverse correlation found between MeCP2 levels in the mPFC and risk-taking.
- RDT performance suppressed MeCP2 expression in the dorsal mPFC and nucleus accumbens.
- Neuronal activity marker pMeCP2 increased in the dorsal mPFC following RDT performance.
Conclusions:
- MeCP2 plays a complex regulatory role in risky decision-making.
- Epigenetic mechanisms involving MeCP2 may be crucial for understanding decision-making processes.
- Findings suggest potential molecular targets for neuropsychiatric disorders affecting risk assessment.
