Kerry Delaney

Kerry Delaney, PhD

University of Victoria
Basic Research: $ 149,908

Brain cell communication in a mouse model of Rett syndrome

Brain cells form specific connection patterns that create the pathways they use to communicate with one another. This communication affects brain cell activity and the function of the entire brain. In Rett syndrome, brain cell communication is disrupted because the mutations in the MeCP2 protein that cause Rett syndrome alter the signals that brain cells send to their connections. This research will determine whether this distorted signaling affects only those brain cells with mutant MeCP2 protein or all brain cells regardless of MeCP2 status. It is very important for the design of future treatments for females with Rett syndrome because their brain cells are a mixture consisting of some cells with mutant MeCP2 and others with normal MeCP2.