35th Annual Student Research Conference
Quantification of Beta-1-Adrenergic Receptors in Hearts of Alzheimer’s Induced Rats Using Western Blot Technique
Cassadi Forman
Dr. Daniela Ostrowski and Dr. Tim Ostrowski (ATSU), Faculty Mentors
Orthostatic hypotension, defined as a significant drop in blood pressure when standing up, is prevalent in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Blood pressure homeostasis is regulated by the baroreflex. The baroreflex, senses blood pressure changes with baroreceptors in the carotid sinus and aortic arch. Information about blood pressure is sent to the brain that modulates the activity of the autonomic nervous system to restore normal pressure. The nucleus tractus solitarii (nTS) is the primary integration site for baroreceptor afferents and therefore a target brain area to understand baroreflex dysfunction. Our previous study analyzed differences in nTS function of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced AD rats, showing altered baroreflex function via brain mechanisms. However, remodeling of beta-1 adrenergic receptors (B1AR) on the heart may also contribute to baroreflex dysfunction seen in AD patients. This study aims to quantify B1AR levels in heart tissue of control and AD-induced rats using the Western blot method.
Keywords: Alzheimer's disease, baroreflex, beta-1 adrenergic receptor, Western blot, streptozotocin, heart
Topic(s):Biology
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Presentation Type: Poster Presentation
Session: 2-16
Location: SUB Activities Room
Time: 3:00