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David P. McCobb     (WEB PAGE) dpm9 @ cornell.edu W153 Mudd Hall      607-254-4321   [edit] Faculty associated with: Jonathan King Department: Neurobiology and Behavior Field: Neurobiology and Behavior Keywords: Behavioral genetics (7), Cell and Molecular Neuroscience (23), Cognitive Neuroscience (17), Hippocampus (11), Ion channel (6), Mouse (11), Neuroendocrinology (7), Neuroethology (24), Neuromodulation (12), Neurotransmitter receptors and transporters (9), Proteins (3), Social behavior (12), Steroid hormones (2), Stress (8), Systems Neuroscience (25) Neuroscience-related courses taught Instructor: BIONB 413: Molecules of Social Behavior and Emotion We are interested in how and why specific ion channels contribute to 1) rapid information processing in the nervous system, and 2) experience-dependent plasticity in processing and behavior. We have focused on BK (Big calcium-activated K channels) in adrenaline-secreting chromaffin cells of the adrenal gland, where we have described stress- and steroid hormone-related regulation of transcription of the main pore-forming channel gene (Slo) and its Beta subunits, regulation of alternative splicing of Slo, and immediate effects of steroid hormones on channel function. Complementing neuroendocrine and behavioral experiments, we have used a comparative approach, as well, finding robust differences between species, genetic strains, sexes, and developmental stages. To make and test links between gene products and function, we use an eclectic battery of experimental methods, including patch clamp, two-electrode voltage clamp, extracellular recording, quantitative real-time PCR, genetic engineering in mice, and behavioral analysis. For maximal traction, we are now focusing much effort on mice, where several engineered strains give us definitive extremes in which to test the impact of channel regulation and modulation on action potential firing properties of chromaffin cells, and on cardiovascular and behavioral function downstream of adrenaline release. We are very interested in extending what we learn from chromaffin cells to other cells, including pituitary, hippocampus, and other CNS circuitry that participates in stress-responses.

Please report corrections, questions, comments, and problems to: Lori Miller (lmm8 AT cornell.edu)