Define how light affects development and function of the brain and sensory systems

This project aims to define how light signaling through opsin (Opn) photoreceptors affect the development and later function of the brain and sensory systems. Few studies have examined the role of light as a biological signaling pathway beyond merely visual functions.

For this purpose, my research group has designed unique LED devices to expose mouse and chick to specific light conditions, and will build microprobes to measure photon penetrance in tissue of interest using highly sensitive spectrometers.

We will analyze Opn3, 4 and 5 knockout mice using developmental and molecular biology techniques such as; 2D and 3D expression pattern imaging, RNAseq, MRI, mouse behavioral tests and real time pupil light reflex recordings.

Our recent publication reports embryonic Opn3 expression in many brain regions, and in visual, auditory and olfactory sensory structures.

Also, a range of human neurological and psychiatric disorders have a season-of-birth associated risk, supporting a role for light during fetal development.

During a five-year project period we will provide mechanistic information about how light, or lack of light, influences the nervous system.

Our results will have the potential to increase our understanding of how dark seasons, artificial light, shift work and indoor living affect individuals, which in the long term could lead to disease prevention or treatment strategies that rely on relevant light quality exposure.