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Mudd – Sex Differences of TH Expression in Norepinephrine Neurons in the Locus Coeruleus

 

Sex Differences of TH Expression in Norepinephrine Neurons in the Locus Coeruleus (2024)

Undergraduates: Sydney Mudd, Mohana Mishra, Nidia Pineda, Nikita Elkin, Sabrina Robertson


Faculty Advisor: Sabrina Robertson
Department: Neuroscience

This study investigates sex-specific differences in Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) expression in the locus coeruleus (LC) of mice and its implications for understanding the noradrenergic system's regulation in conditions such as Parkinson's disease. The LC is the brain's principal source of norepinephrine (NE) neurons. Notably, males have a higher incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD), a condition associated with diminished Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) expression. It was hypothesized that lower TH levels in the LC of male mice may underpin their increased susceptibility to PD. Utilizing a triple transgenic mouse model with enhanced green fluorescent protein marking norepinephrine (NE) neurons, immunohistochemistry, and advanced imaging analysis were applied to quantify TH expression in the LC. These results could underscore the need for personalized approaches to neurological treatments and pave the way for further studies on sex differences in the NE system's functioning.