Training Faculty


	Training Faculty Home » Faculty » Training Faculty Faculty members at Emory University who are currently available to serve as Primary Advisors, Co-Advisors, Rotation Advisors, and Dissertation Committee Members. Search Faculty Profiles: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Francisco Alvarez francisco.j.alvarez@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Research Interest: The principal interest of our lab is the development and plasticity of synaptic circuits in functional networks. More specifically, our lab focuses on spinal motor circuit assembly during development, resulting in the formation of spinal circuits capable of adult-like locomotion. Within these circuits our main interest is on the specification, synaptogenesis and maturation of inhibitory interneurons that modulate and pattern the activity of motoneurons. We then apply this knowledge to understand spinal cord circuit plasticity after peripheral nerve injury and neurodegenerative disorders like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In the first case, permanent circuit modifications at the level of the spinal cord and induced by the nerve injury might be responsible for lingering motor deficits even after the peripheral nerve correctly regenerates and innervates targets in the periphery. In ALS, inhibitory synapse and circuit anomalies could contribute to trigger the onset of motoneuron pathology by exacerbating their hyperexcitability. Jocelyne Bachevalier jbachev@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Hippocampal and temporal lobe regulation of learning and memory in primates. Gary Bassell gary.bassell@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The major research interest of our laboratory is to understand the diverse and critical roles played by local protein synthesis in the central and peripheral nervous system to regulate neuronal development, synaptic plasticity, and regeneration. In addition, we are studying how impairments in local protein synthesis contribute to Fragile X syndrone (FXS) and other autism spectrum disorders, as well as two motor neuron diseases: spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and amyotrophic lateral scherosis (ALS). We are using in vitro and in vivo models of synaptic activity, nerve and spinal cord injury, as well as mouse models of neurological diseases, to assess the function of mRNA regulation and local protein synthesis in axon guidance, nerve regeneration, and synaptic plasticity. Efforts are also underway to characterize altered neuronal receptor signaling pathways and evaluate different therapeutic modalities in these mouse models of neurological diseases. Our research utilizes an integrated multi-disciplinary approach that involves cellular, molecular, biochemical, physiological, and behavioral methods and paradigms. These studies are expected to reveal new mechanisms important for neuronal development and function, and targeted approaches for therapeutic intervention that treat underlying molecular defects. Gregory Berns gberns@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My research is aimed at understanding the neurobiological basis for individual preferences and how the biology places constraints on the decisions people make -- a field now known as neuroeconomics. To achieve this goal, we use functional MRI to measure the activity in key parts of the brain involved in decision making. We then link these activity traces to various phenotypes of decision making. For example, we have linked the pattern of activity in the striatum with the receipt of unexpected, salient information with the tendency to alter one's behavior. More recently, we have used the timecourse of activity as a proxy for experiential utility, in the process, bridging the gap between experience and choice. Ongoing research projects are developing these methods to probe decision-making in adolescents as well as group decision-making and the influence of peer pressure at the neurobiological level. Ranjita Betarbet rbetarb@emory.edu Training Faculty My research interests are in the pathogenesis and pathology of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. More specifically, the interactions between PD/AD-related genetic factors and external stressors, including mitochondrial impairment, oxidative stress, proteasomal inhibition, and their involvement in protein trafficking pathways in neurodegeneration. I am also interested in the organizational changes in the basal ganglia circuitry that occur in Parkinson's disease including the dopaminergic and glutamatergic pathways. Nicholas Boulis nboulis@emory.edu Training Faculty The Boulis laboratory focuses on the translation of concepts in neural gene transfer and stem cell transplant to the treatment of functional and degenerative disorders of the nervous system. Functional disorders of interest include epilepsy and spasticity as well as the control of aberrant basal ganglion function in movement disorders. Degenerative disorders of interest include Parkinson's Disease and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. To treat degenerative disorders, we have explored a variety of anti-apoptotic and growth factor genes. These are screened through in vitro assays prior to testing in transgenic models. A recent manuscript describes neuroprotection through the delivery of the gene for X-Linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis (XIAP)1, Bcl-xL2, and Insulin-like Growth Factor I (IGF-I). Ongoing projects are exploring the application of cervical spinal cord surgery for the injection of adeno-associated viral vectors encoding IGF-I in SOD1 mutant rats. DuBois Bowman dbowma3@sph.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Click To View My Lab Website In the Center for Biomedical Imaging Statistics (CBIS), a major focus of our research is on the development and applications of statistical methods for analyzing brain imaging data. These methods make use of data reflecting brain function, for example, from functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as well as structural information obtained from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Generally, our statistical methods attempt to improve our understanding of human brain function by (1) determining functional linkages between brain regions either at resting state or when performing specific experimental tasks, (2) identifying specific brain regions that drive the performance of a task and evaluating differences in these distributed patterns of task-related activity between subgroups (e.g. between a patient group and healthy control subjects), and (3) addressing various prediction objectives such as predicting neural responses to treatment and predicting clinical psychiatric symptoms (e.g. associated with major depression) based on functional imaging data. J. Douglas Bremner jdbremn@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Click To View My Lab Website My research focuses on the use of neuroimaging and neurobiology measures to study the neural correlates and neurobiology of posttramatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to combat and childhood abuse, as well as the related area of depression. Published studies include work on neurobiology and assessment of PTSD; hippocampus and memory in PTSD and depression; neural correlates of declarative memory and traumatic rememberance in PTSD; and PET measurement of neuroreceptor binding in mood and anxiety disorders Cathrin Buetefisch cathrin.buetefisch@emory.edu Training Faculty My research is focused on improving the understanding of mechanisms underlying motor system plasticity and developing means to modulate plasticity with the clinical translational aspect of formulating rehabilitation strategies to improve functional recovery in neurological patients. Motor cortex reorganization plays a major role in post-stroke recovery of motor function, and is a primary therapeutic target for rehabilitation. Mechanisms that modify synaptic efficacy, such as long-term potentiation (LTP) are thought to be involved in this process. In my lab, we study mechanisms and means to modulate motor cortex reorganization in the intact and injured brain using neuroimaging techniques, such as functional and structural MRI, and electrophysiological techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and pharmaceutical interventions. Elizabeth Buffalo Elizabeth.Buffalo@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our research is aimed at understanding the neural mechanisms that support learning and memory. Using neurophysiological techniques, we record simultaneously from multiple electrodes in the hippocampus and surrounding cortex in awake, behaving monkeys. We investigate how changes in neuronal activity correlate with the monkey's ability to learn and remember. We are particularly interested in the activity of neuronal networks that underlie learning and memory processes. We use spectral analysis techniques to investigate the role of oscillatory activity and neuronal synchronization in cognition. Ronald Calabrese rcalabre@biology.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our lab studies the neural circuit that controls the hearts of medicinal leeches. We record the electrical activity of neurons in this circuit with microelectrodes. Using voltage clamp techniques, we isolate and characterize the individual ionic currents which contribute to this activity. We also study the biophysics of synaptic transmission and the role of background calcium in synaptic plasticity using Ca imaging. To understand how membrane currents and synaptic transmission interact to produce the activity of the circuit, we simulate the ionic currents and cell connectivity with realistic biophysical models. We also use such models in real time simulation to construct hybrid systems between computer and neuron to analyze circuit and neuronal function. We address the general questions of how rhythmic motor patterns are generated and coordinated by networks of interneurons and how these patterns are used to produce the final pattern of activity in motor neurons that produce functionally coordinated movement. Tamara Caspary tcaspary@genetics.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Click To View My Lab Website We are interested in identifying novel genes that control cell fate decisions in the developing nervous system. We do this in an unbiased manner by performing mutagenesis screens that identify recessive mutations that disrupt normal development of the nervous system. Once we map and clone the genes we use them as a entry point and combine molecular, cellular and biochemical methods to understand the molecular mechanisms that permit cells to make specific cell fate decisions. we have recently focused on one mutant, hennin (hnn), which affects the structure of cilia and leads to an overproduction of motor neurons in an expanded domain of the developing spinal cord. Mike Caudle william.m.caudle@emory.edu Training Faculty The developing human brain is exquisitely more susceptible to the damaging effects of toxic agents than the adult brain. As a result, exposure to many environmental toxicants, such as pesticides and other industrial contaminants has been associated with the increased incidence of several neurological disorders, including autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Parkinson disease. The focus of our research is to gain insight into the contribution that exposure to environmental contaminants makes on the development of neurobehavioral and neurodegenerative diseases, either independently or through their interaction with underlying genetic predispositions. Through the use of cellular and animal models as well as human subjects, we hope to create a holistic understanding of the etiopathogenesis of these disorders in order to facilitate the development of effective therapeutic interventions. Anthony Chan Training Faculty The research interests of our laboratory include: 1. The development of a transgenic non-human primate model for human genetic disorders such as Huntington's, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's etc., 2. The biology of the differentiation control of rodent, non-human primate and human embryonic stem (ES) cells, and 3. The therapeutic applications of ES cells in diseases such as Huntington's and Parkinson's. Peng Chen pchen@cellbio.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our lab studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the morphogenesis of the mammalian auditory organ, the organ of Corti. In particular, we are interested at how cells at particular location of the developing inner ear are singled out to become the precursors of the sensory epithelium, withdraw from cell cycle, and subsequently differentiate into a given cell type of the organ of Corti, and how the differentiation process is coupled to the establishment of the polarity of the sensory epithelium Lih-Shen Chin chinl@pharm.emory.edu Training Faculty My research focuses on the molecular pathogenic mechanisms of Parkinson's disease (PD). We are using molecular, cellular, proteomic, and biochemical approaches to delineate the molecular pathways by which the mutations in familial PD proteins DJ-1, Parkin, and PINK1 lead to neurodegeneration and to identify additional proteins and new pathways involved in PD pathogenesis (J. Biol. Chem. 279: 8506-8515; J. Comp. Neurol. 500: 585-599; PLoS Biology: 5: e172.). By using a redox proteomic approach, we are characterizing protein targets of oxidative damage in idiopathic PD brains and investigating the gene-environment interactions in PD pathogenesis (J. Biol. Chem. 281: 10816-10824). We are also studying the role of ubiquitination and aggresome formation in PD pathogenesis (J. Cell Biol. 178: 1025-1038). Our goal is to use the mechanistic insights gained from these studies for developing new intervention strategies to treat PD. Inyeong Choi ichoi@physio.emory.edu Training Faculty Our lab is interested in molecular mechanisms of acid-base regulation in the brain and kidney. In particular, we focus on the sodium/bicarbonate transporters that move Na+ and HCO3 ions across the cell membrane. These transporters not only regulate the acid-base balance in the cell or tissue, but they can also modulate distinct cell physiology such as neuronal activity, fluid secretion or reproduction. We are interested in how the transporters affect acid-base homeostasis of the cell, how they work at the molecular level, and how they are regulated. Robert Cohen robert.m.cohen@emory.edu Training Faculty Research Interest: The lab is focused on (1) furthering our understanding of the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), (2) developing imaging and biochemical biomarkers of AD to observe the earliest beginnings of the disease and to efficiently evaluate experimental treatments and (3) improving on our predictions of which treatments warrant being brought to the clinic. For these purposes we have been successful in developing a transgenic rat AD model that more faithfully recapitulates the pathology of the human disease. While the model was an essential first step we recognize that it will only be through sustained interdisciplinary team work that we will be able to achieve our goals. Raymond Dingledine rdingledine@pharm.emory.edu Training Faculty Glutamate receptors mediate the vast majority of excitatory synaptic transmission in the brain. A major research effort in my lab is focused on regulation of glutamate receptor-mediated synaptic transmission in the brain by the co-activation of selected G-protein coupled receptors. A second research emphasis involves the use of microarray and associated technologies to identify novel targets and pathways involved in the basic cellular and molecular mechanisms of epilepsy. These research interests converge and have highlighted a role for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) signaling pathways in the cognitive deficits, impaired synaptic inhibition, and neurodegeneration caused by seizures. We are currently seeking the prostaglandin receptors responsible for each of these effects; we will then employ a chemical biology approach to develop novel small molecule modulators of these receptors in an effort to interrupt the development of epilepsy. As a whole our work integrates information from a variety of experimental strategies to contribute to a better understanding of epilepsy, with broad implications for other brain disorders including stroke and schizophrenia. Arthur W. English art@cellbio.emory.edu Training Faculty The main interest in my laboratory is enhancing functional recovery following injury to the peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerve injuries are common clinically but functional recovery from them is rare. Following nerve injury, denervated muscles are deprived of neural control and sensory feedback regulating muscle function is lost. In addition, synaptic inputs onto spinal motoneurons are withdrawn. The slow growth of regenerating axons and the slow reformation of synapses, both in the periphery and in the CNS, are the reasons given for poor functional outcomes. We have found that exercise or electrical stimulation enhances the growth of regenerating axons. Using a combination of transgenic and knockout mice we are investigating the roles played by the neurotrophins BDNF and NT-4/5 in that enhancement, as well as in the reformation of synapses at both neuromuscular junctions and spinal motoneurons. Using chronic electrophysiologic recordings in rats, we are evaluating the effects of exercise or electrical stimulation on functional recovery following peripheral nerve injury. Andrew Escayg aescayg@genetics.emory.edu Training Faculty Our lab uses a combination of human and mouse genetics, mouse disease models, molecular techniques, EEG, and genome analysis/bioinformatics in order to determine the molecular basis of inherited neurological disorders. We have a broad interest in neurological disease, including epilepsy, ataxia and other movement disorders, and migraine. Our lab has several mouse lines with mutations in voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSC) which model severe childhood epilepsies (Dravet Syndrome, Genetic Epilepsy with Febrile Seizures Plus) as well as absence epilepsy. Current projects in the lab include the contribution of VGSC to excitatory and inhibitory signaling, the mechanisms underlying febrile seizures, the effect of VGSC mutations on stress system function, the mechanisms underlying the stress-epilepsy connection, and the use of one VGSC mutation to ameliorate the more severe phenotype of another VGSC mutation. The long-term goal of our research is to develop better diagnostic tools and more effective therapeutic agents for neurological diseases such as epilepsy. Victor Faundez faundez@cellbio.emory.edu Training Faculty The long-term goal of our laboratory is to understand the mechanisms that control the identity of the membranous organelles that define eukaryotic cells. The current hypothesis is that selective vesicle formation and fusion mechanisms account for the maintenance of organelles. This process is particularly critical when we consider that ~ 100 different human disease entities arise from defects in membrane organelle exchange or traffic. Our laboratory explores how organelles exchange components by means of vesicles in the context of the endolysosomal pathway of neurons. Our focus in this pathway and in neural tissue stems from the fundamental role of the endo-lysosomal route in the generation of synaptic vesicle and the role of endosome-lysosomes in the pathogenesis of a diverse set of genetic and non-genetic neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, and possibly schizophrenia. Jonathan D. Glass jglas03@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My research focuses on the pathogenesis and treatment of axonal degeneration in neurodegenerative diseases. Axonal degeneration is the final common pathway of many neurological diseases of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. The loss of axons, even in the face of healthy and functioning neuronal cell bodies, disconnects neurons from their targets and causes neurological dysfunction. Understanding the pathogenesis of axonal degeneration will necessarily lead to novel therapies for treating a variety of neurological disorders. Our laboratory has several ongoing projects using animal and cell culture models of disease as well as investigations focusing on people with neurodegenerative diseases. ALS is a primary focus, including experimental studies of axonal degeneration in animal models, toxicity studies of mutant SOD1, and proteomic discovery of ALS biomarkers. We are also investigating the role of cysteine proteases in axonal degeneration and have developed novel protease inhibitors that prevent neuropathy in animals. These compounds and are being developed for use in humans. Mark M. Goodman mgoodma@emory.edu Training Faculty Research interests emcompass PET and SPECT radiotracer development of heart, brain and oncology agents with an emphasis on the design and evaluation of radiolabeled fatty acids for in vivo study of regional fatty acid metabolism in heart disorders, cocaine analogs for in vivo study of the dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine reuptake sites in neurodegenerative disease, psychiatric and addictive disorders, heterocyclic spiperone analogs for in vivo mapping of D2 dopamine recpetors in psychiatric disorders, peripheral benzodiazepine receptor ligands for imaging peripheral vascular disease and mappping of intracranial tumors, carbohydrates for in vivo study of regional glucose metabolism in heart disorders, brain disorders, and cancer, and alicyclic and branched chain amino acids for in vivo mapping of intracranial ans systemic tumors. Shannon Gourley shannon.l.gourley@emory.edu Training Faculty The Gourley lab is a behavioral neuroscience laboratory at Emory with a dedicated interest in issues pertaining to drug abuse and stress exposure. Broadly, the Gourley lab focuses on the mechanisms by which pathological stimuli such as stress hormone exposure or exposure to psychostimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine, methylphenidate), particularly during adolescence, regulate biochemical and cellular morphology outcomes in the brain and set the stage for behavioral decision-making in adulthood. We utilize transgenic mice, high-resolution confocal microscopy, viral-mediated gene transfer, and behavioral pharmacological strategies to better understand how cytoskeletal dynamics, particularly during adolescence, impact morphological and behavioral outcomes in adulthood. Throughout, special attention is paid to understanding: 1) why and how adolescence serves as a period of vulnerability to the persistent behavioral effects of exposure to stress hormones or drugs of abuse on the one hand, and a window of opportunity for recovery on the other; and 2) the relationship between behavioral traits and stressor and drug resilience. James Greene jggreen@emory.edu Training Faculty Our laboratory focuses on determining mechanisms of selective neuronal vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases. Using behavioral analyses, global assessment of gene expression, live-cell imaging, and assays of cellular metabolism and toxicity, we are attempting to determine pathogenic mechanisms of neuron death and dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. This includes analysis of the enteric nervous system as one of the earliest sites of neuronal dysfunction in PD. Robert Gross robert_gross@emory.org Training Faculty The goal of my laboratory is to develop novel surgical therapies utilizing cell and/or gene therapy, or electrical stimulation, for ameliorating neurological diseases: 1) Axon guidance molecules in the development and reconstruction of the nigrostriatal pathway. We have been examining the role of semaphorins and their receptors in the developing and adult nigrostriatal pathway. 2) The role of RhoGTPase in mediating the inhibitory effects of the adult CNS on neural reconstruction. RhoGTPases mediate inhibitory effects of a range of molecules, including semaphorins, on regenerating neurons. To counteract these effects, we have produced a lentiviral vector encoding C3 transferase which catalytically inhibits RhoA, and shown that it markedly increases outgrowth of axons from a variety of cells including neural stem cells derived neurons. 3) The role of microglia in neurotoxin-induced degeneration of the nigrostriatal pathway. Towards developing novel therapy for neuroprotection in Parkinson's disease and other degenerative conditions, we have been examining the role of microglial activation after treatment of young and old rats. We are currently embarking on examining the role of RhoGTPases in mediating the microglial-inhibitory effects of neuroprotective peptides. 4) Closed-loop multi-microelectrode recording and microstimulation in focal epilepsy in the rat. In collaboration with Steve Potter, we are examining whether a novel microrecording and stimulation algorithm is capable of blocking the onset of propagation of epileptic seizures in rat models of epilepsy 5) Deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Parkinson's disease, Dystonia, Tourette's Syndrome, Epilepsy and Depression. In collaboration with Emory neurologists, experimental protocols are underway to examine STN vs. GPi DBS in PD. Ying Guo yguo2@sph.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Click To View My Lab Website My research focuses on development of statistical methods for addressing research questions arising from brain imaging studies involving functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), positron emission tomography (PET), or diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data. My current research interests include: developing new methods for making group inferences and group comparisons in multi-subject imaging data; building prediction models for forecasting future neural activity or clinical/behavior outcomes, s.t. treatment responses, based on functional brain images. Randy A. Hall rhall@pharm.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website We study the mechanisms of signal transduction by neurotransmitter and hormone receptors. Our typical approach is to first uncover receptor interactions with either intracellular proteins or other receptors, and then elucidate the physiological consequences of these interactions in a variety of functional studies. Understanding the mechanisms of signal transduction by neurotransmitter and hormone receptors is of paramount clinical importance, since such receptors are common targets for therapeutic pharmaceuticals in the treatment of many neuropsychiatric conditions. Criss Hartzell criss@cellbio.emory.edu Training Faculty We have been studying C1 channels, which play an important role in neuro-degenerative diseases. Knockout of C1C-2, C1C-3 and C1C-7 in mice all produce post-natal degeneration of specific parts of the nervous system. I am particularly interested in bestrophin, a C1 channel that produces retinal (macular) degeneration. John R. Hepler jhepler@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website We study how brain cells communicate with one another to modulate synaptic signaling and brain physiology. More specifically, our research focuses on identifying key brain signaling proteins (RGS proteins, G proteins, neurotransmitter and hormone receptors and linked signaling proteins) and understanding how these proteins work together to propagate neurotransmitter and neuromodulator signals to regulate neuronal and glial functions. These cellular functions are critical for learning and memory and other behaviors, as well as tissue regeneration following brain injury (e.g., stroke). Impairment of these processes contributes to cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer 's disease and others) and aging. To study these mechanisms, we employ a variety of modern, multidisciplinary experimental approaches including cellular signaling and imaging, molecular biology techniques, recombinant and native protein biochemistry, and mouse behavioral models. Please check our lab web site to learn more about our research. Ellen Hess ejhess@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our laboratory uses molecular, genetic, anatomical and behavioral approaches to determine the contribution of the basal ganglia and cerebellum to normal movements and movement disorders. Our specific interest is the pathophysiological basis of dystonia, a movement disorder characterized by abnormal patterns and strengths of muscle contractions caused by dysfunction of the basal ganglia, the cerebellum or both. Shawn Hochman shawn.hochman@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website We have broad interests in synaptic plasticity and neuromodulation associated with spinal cord injury, pain, locomotion, and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Leonard Howell lhowell@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Dr. Leonard L. Howell has an established research program in behavioral neuropharmacology with a focus on central nervous system stimulants and the development of medications to treat stimulant addiction. The program is multidisciplinary and integrates operant-conditioning techniques to study behavior and drug use, in vivo microdialysis to characterize brain neurochemistry, and functional brain imaging. Ongoing studies investigate in nonhuman primate models the neurochemical mechanisms that mediate drug effects on behavior. Recent efforts have focused on drug-induced changes in brain neurochemistry with in vivo microdialysis in behaving monkeys trained to self-administer cocaine. In addition, Dr. Howell serves as Director of the Yerkes Imaging Center. His neuroimaging program includes drug receptor occupancy, pharmacokinetics, brain metabolism and functional magnet resonance imaging (fMRI) in awake, behaving monkeys. The long-range objective is to develop a unique, multidisciplinary research program in substance abuse that effectively integrates behavior, neurochemistry and functional brain imaging in nonhuman primates. Xiaoping Hu xhu@bme.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The research in our lab lies in the development of biomedical imaging techniques, particularly those based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and their application to the understanding of anatomy, function and physiology of brain in its normal state and diseased state. Specifically, we are focusing on functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging and interested in furthering and using these techniques for understanding how brain works at a system level. Current projects include improvement of image acquisition and processing methods, investigation of underlying biophysics and physiology of imaging measurements, and elucidation of neurobiological underpinning of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. P. Michael Iuvone miuvone@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Research in the Iuvone laboratory focuses on retinal mechanisms that control visual adaptation and ocular disease. We study the roles of circadian clocks and neuromodulators in light and dark adaptation, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and age-related neuronal degeneration. These studies have clinical relevance to diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people over 55, and in glaucoma. Neuroprotective strategies are being tested to prevent these disorders. Additional collaborative studies seek to elucidate the retinal circuitry underlying the regulation of postnatal eye growth and development of myopia. Dieter Jaeger djaeger@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website We combine electrophysiological recordings and detailed compartmental modelling to examine how neurons in the basal ganglia and in the cerebellum process their inputs. In particular we are interested in the functional role of inhibitory inputs and the role of active neural properties in network processing. We also apply these concepts to investigate the mechanisms underlying the clinical effects of deep brain stimulation using multisite recordings in anesthetized rodents. Andrew Jenkins ajenki2@emory.edu Training Faculty The GABAA receptor is the most abundant fast inhibitory neurotransmitter receptor in the CNS. Our goal is to understand how neurosteroids, general anesthetics, sedative and anxiolytic drugs, alter the function of the receptor to mediate their clinically useful effects. We typically do this by using combinations of site directed mutagenesis, patch clamp electrophysiology and computational modeling. It is our hope that through a better understanding of receptor function, we will also gain a better understanding of the role receptor dysfunction plays in diseases such as epilepsy, schizophrenia and autism. Peng Jin peng.jin@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The importance of noncoding RNAs has been increasingly recognized within the last several years, particularly with the identification of new classes of small RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs). These noncoding RNAs play important roles in neural development and can be involved in neuronal translation control (miRNAs) or transcription regulation (small modulatory RNAs in the fate specification of adult neural stem cells), and can be pathogenic (noncoding repeats in neurodegeneration). The ultimate goal of my lab is to understand the roles of noncoding RNAs in neural development and the pathogenesis of brain disorders. Currently we are focusing on several areas: 1) the role of microRNA pathways in learning and memory; 2) the molecular basis of RNA-mediated neurodegeneration; 3) small noncoding RNAs and epigenetic regulation; 4) chemical genomic approach to dissect small RNA pathway. H. A. (Buz) Jinnah hjinnah@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our research interests are in the biological basis for neurological and behavioral disorders. We have a special interest in the biological basis of dystonia, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary twisting movements and unnatural postures with many different etiologies. Our research strategy involves two complementary approaches. One approach entails studies of biological mechanisms responsible for dystonia in Lesch-Nyhan disease, a rare neurogenetic disorder for which the genetic mutations and biochemical defects are known. The other approach involves the investigation of biological mechanisms shared by different forms of dystonia, with the goal of identifying final common molecular and neural pathways. Harish Joshi joshi@cellbio.emory.edu Training Faculty I am interested in investigating the rules by which cellular architecture is choreographed during two aspects of development: the mitotic cell division and post-mitotic neuronal differentiation. We have focused on microtubules, which play a crucial role in both of these processes. To understand diverse microtubule behavior during these biological processes, we first analyzed the genes that encode subunit proteins tubulins which assemble to form microtubules. We are now analyzing how different tubulin protein subunits contribute to different behavior of microtubules during neuronal morphogenesis. The approach we are taking combines genetics, molecular cell biology, biochemistry, and structural biology. Richard A. Kahn rkahn@emory.edu Training Faculty Research in my laboratory is focused on two areas of cell signaling. One is the regulation of the traffic and processing of transmembrane proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis; including the amyloid precursor protein (APP), beta-secretase (BACE), LR11/SorLA, and the low-density lipoprotein receptor-like protein (LRP). Particular attention is currently focused on the regulation of their sorting at the Golgi. We seek to better understand the molecules involved and regulatory steps in the generation of the neurotoxic A-beta to allow the design of better ways to prevent Alzheimer's Disease. The other area of research is broader in scope as we study the regulatory links between mitochondrial functions (including ATP generation and reactive oxygen), the cytoskeleton, and cell division. We hope to define the regulatory links between energy metabolism and other cell functions, particularly those defective in chronic disease states. Such an understanding will yield tremendous insights into cell regulation but will also provide researchers with the tools to design the next generation of targeted pharmaceutical for neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and other diseases. Michael J. Kuhar michael.kuhar@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our general interests include the structure and function of the brain, and particulary the deficits that occur in neuropsychiatric disease. There is an emphasis on neurotransmitter systems and their involvement in brain function. A recent focus has been on molecular and cellular mechanisms of drug addiction, and particularly on novel genes associated with the addiction process. Current topics of research include CART peptides, development of medications for drug addicts, and a study of novel genes involved in the addiction process. Thomas Kukar thomas.kukar@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The goal of my laboratory is to develop therapeutic strategies to treat two devastating neurodegenerative diseases: Alzheimer?s disease (AD) and Frontotemporal dementia (FTD). We investigate disease pathogenesis to identifying new drug targets and use this knowledge to discover potential therapeutic compounds. We are focusing on two main projects. The first is to develop and characterize a new class of drugs called Substrate-Targeting γ-Secretase Modulators (stGSMs) as Alzheimer's disease therapies. stGSMs potently inhibit Aβ42, the putative pathogenic peptide in AD, as well as inhibit aggregation of Aβ42 through direct binding to the peptide. The second project is to understand the role of the progranulin and TDP-43 proteins in neurodegeneration. Genetic and biochemical studies have linked these proteins to Frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but the molecular mechanism is unclear. Our laboratory is using a multi-disciplinary strategy, including chemical and molecular biology, proteomics, neuropharmacology, cell culture, viral vectors, and in vivo models to investigate the normal and pathogenic role of these molecules, and ultimately therapies that are desperately needed for these disorders. Jim Lah jlah@emory.edu Training Faculty My research is driven by the goal of understanding basic pathogenic mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Specific topics of interest include: regulation of amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing through control of intracellular trafficking, analysis of the role of the apolipoprotein (ApoE) receptor LR11 in amyloidogenesis, modulation of APP processing by muscarinic receptor activity, and characterization of new genes involved in AD and neurodegeneration. These questions are being addressed in a variety of cellular and animal models, using plasmid transfections, viral gene transfer, and siRNA techniques combined with biochemical and cell biological analytic methods. Robert Lee rhlee@bme.gatech.edu Training Faculty Determining the principals underlying neuron computation within the context of the control of movement. Cellular neurophysiology, to determine how the whole cell behavior arises from their constituent sub-cellular structures in neurons and motoneurons.Computer modeling of neurons, developing advanced methods for automatically tuning neuronal models and for examining and validating the model's behavior. Allan I. Levey alevey@emory.edu Training Faculty Dr. Levey investigates Alzheimer's and related neurodegenerative diseases. The laboratory research focuses on pathogenesis of disease, studying novel genetic and proteomic factors and investigating their potential role in the disease as biomarkers and potential sites of action for new therapies. The laboratory is a multi-disciplinary and highly collaborative environment in the Center for Neurodegenerative Disease and Alzheimer?s Disease Research Center. Lian Li lianli@pharm.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My laboratory studies the molecular basis of neurotransmitter release and pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's diseases. A current major focus of our work is to delineate the molecular pathways by which mutations in familial Parkinson's disease proteins ( -synuclein, parkin, DJ-1, and UCH-L1) lead to neurodegeneration and identify additional molecular players in the pathogenic pathways. We are also studying regulation mechanisms of vesicular trafficking and investigating the role of abnormal vesicular trafficking and protein ubiquitination in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's diseases. Our research uses a combination of molecular biological, biochemical, cell biological, proteomic, and molecular genetic approaches, including targeted gene disruption. Xiao-Jiang Li xiaoli@genetics.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The major interest of our laboratory is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which misfolded proteins mediate selective neurodegeneration. We focus on inherited neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's disease, which are caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine domain in proteins associated with various diseases. We are using a combination of molecular neurobiology, biochemistry, cell biology, and transgenic mouse approaches to address how polyglutamine expansion in ubiquitous proteins selectively induces late-onset neurodegeneration. Understanding this issue will also help elucidate the pathogenesis of other age-dependent neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Erick X. Lin xlin2@emory.edu Training Faculty The general interest of my lab is to understand how ion channels and receptors contribute to the transduction and homeostasis in the cochlea. The transduction process in the cochlea turns the mechanical vibration into impulses in the auditory nerve. Maintenance of cochlear homeostasis ensures the balance of metabolic activities, normal fluid and ionic composition in the inner ear. Membrane channels in the cochlea are the key components in both processes that are essential for normal hearing. Currently our research focuses on the role of a type of intercellular channels called gap junctions in the cochlear functions. Mutations in the connexins (protein subunits of gap junctions) genes are one of the most common forms of human genetic defects. Genetic studies reveal that connexin mutations account for about 50% of prelingual severe-to-profound nonsyndromic hearing loss. How these genetic mutations affect normal cochlear functions remains unclear. We use both mouse models and in vitro reconstituted human mutant connexin26 and connexin30 to address two key questions: (1) What are the cellular and molecular mechanisms of deafness caused by various types of connexin mutations? (2) How to restore hearing in connexin mutant mice? In addition to genetic mutations, many ototoxic and tinnitus-inducing drugs directly affect functions of ion channels/receptor in the inner ear. Our research, therefore, should help understanding how malfunctions of the membrane channels contribute to genetic sensorineural hearing loss, ototoxicity and certain forms of drug-induced tinnitus. Robert Liu Robert.Liu@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our Computational Neuroethology laboratory is interested in understanding how behaviorally-relevant sensory signals are encoded by cortical neurons, and what factors (e.g. experience, hormones) might lead to plastic changes in that code. We investigate this in the mouse, where ultrasonic communication between animals provides a natural behavioral context for these studies, and transgenic methods offer future possibilities for mechanistic dissection of coding mechanisms. We perform electrophysiology in non-anesthetized mice, and employ computational methods to analyze the information processing capabilities of neurons. Donna Maney dmaney@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile Click To View My Lab Website We are interested in the genetic and neuroendocrine bases of social behavior. We hope to understand (1) how genes, hormones and the environment interact to modulate brain plasticity, and (2) how inherited genetic changes, such as chromosomal rearrangements, affect neuroendocrine gene expression and function. Our research approach emphasizes evolutionary principles and combines the fields of molecular biology, genetics, neuroendocrinology, animal behavior, and physiological ecology. We collaborate extensively with faculty in the departments of Human Genetics, Psychiatry, and Biology. Techniques include quantitative real-time PCR, molecular cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and behavioral analysis. Joseph Manns jmanns@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My research focuses on how the hippocampus and associated brain regions participate in the processes that enable our day to day memories. The study of memory benefits greatly from the close homology of the hippocampus across the mammalian taxon, and my lab studies memory by pursuing electrophysiological recordings in rats as they perform memory tasks. In particular, we are interested in the fundamental neurobiological computations arising from the circuitry of the hippocampus and parahippocampal region--the ways in which the anatomy and physiology of the hippocampus enact changes on incoming information and the ways in which this altered information is stored in the brain. Zixu Mao zmao@pharm.emory.edu Training Faculty We study the critical decision processes by which neuronal cells control survival vs. death and differentiation vs. proliferation during cellular development and in more mature stages. We are particularly interested in the roles of nuclear factors in regulating these central processes. In this context, we want to determine how neurons process specific signals, how these signals are relayed to the nucleus by mediators, and how nuclear proteins are modulated in response. Specifically, we are investigating the role and regulatory mechanisms of a transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) of cyclin dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5), a protein that has been implicated in neurodegeneration (Neuron 2003, 38 (1) 33-46). More recently, we have demonstrated that the mechanisms by which Cdk5 negatively regulates MEF2 is a via a phosphorylation-dependent caspase-mediated degradation (Journal of Neuroscience, 2005, accepted) Helen S. Mayberg hmayber@emory.edu Training Faculty My research program has as a central theme, the characterization of neural systems mediating mood and emotional behaviors in health and disease, with a primary emphasis on major depression and its recovery. Functional neuroimaging (PET, fMRI) serve as the core methodologies, although all projects are multi-disciplinary (clinical trials, neurophysiology, personality structure, genetics, cognitive neuroscience, functional neurosurgery). The long-term goals of these integrated studies is the improved understanding of clinical algorithms that will discriminate patient subgroups, optimize treatment selection, predict relapse risk, and provide markers of disease vulnerability. Andrew Miller amill02@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Work in our laboratory examines the relationship among the brain, the neuroendocrine system and the immune system as it relates to neuropsychiatric disorders including depression. Particular emphasis is focused on the impact of cytokines on the brain and behavior and the role of glucocorticoids and their receptors in the regulation of inflammatory responses. Studies in laboratory animals and humans are conducted, including treatment trials of immune-targeted therapies for depression. Gary Miller gwmille@emory.edu Training Faculty Our lab is interested in the role of pesticides (persistent organochlorine insecticides) in the development of Parkinson's disease, with a focus on how these compounds alter the function of the molecules that are responsible for transporting and packaging dopamine. We have recently established novel behavioral methods to assess motor impairment in mouse models of Parkinson's disease. The lab is also interested in the beneficial effects of exercise in neurodegenerative disease, such as Parkinson's. Christopher E. Muly ecmuly@rmy.emory.edu Training Faculty My research interest is how various forms of experience alter the structural organization of nerve cell communication. We are pursuing this interest in the amygdala, where we are studying how stress alters the distribution and plasticity of glutamate receptors and key signaling proteins. We are also studying how dopamine depletion alters the signal transduction environment in direct versus indirect pathway striatal medium spiny neurons. Finally, we are studying the action of antipsychotic drugs in different brain regions using PET imaging techniques. These studies will inform our understanding of experience and drug mediate alterations in brain functioning and will be relevant to a wide variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, including PTSD, Parkinson's Disease and Schizophrenia. Gretchen Neigh gmccand@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Why are some individuals susceptible to the effects of chronic stress while others are resilient? Why are the very young and the very old most susceptible to the physical and mental repercussions of chronic stress? Why are females more adversely impacted by repeated stress than males? Are the effects of chronic stress exposure the manifestation of adaptations to the repeated energetic crises signaled by repetitive and prolonged stress responses? These are a few of the questions addressed by the research in the Neigh laboratory. Our work places particular emphasis on the interactions between the cerebral vasculature and the HPA axis and seeks to understand how changes in cerebral blood supply and metabolism may contribute to the pathogenesis of somatic and psychological sequela of chronic stress. Ilya Nemenman ilya.nemenman@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Using methods of theoretical physics and machine learning to develop functional, coarse-grained models of information processing in systems biology, including: reverse-engineering cellular networks, creation of efficient tools for their modeling and analysis, studies of learning and adaptation in sensory systems, and development of large-scale neuromimetic signal processing systems. Opal Ousley oousley@emory.edu Training Faculty Our research focuses on understanding the neurocognitive, social, and adaptive behavioral development of children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders, as well as those with specific genetic disorders, such as 22q11 Deletion Syndrome. We apply both neuropsychological assessment and neuroimaging techniques to identify critical diagnostic and biological markers which may predict short-term and long-term outcomes. Michael Owens mowens@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our lab's interest is in the biology and treatment of the major psychiatric disorders and can be divided into the following main areas: 1) molecular and cellular pharmacology of antidepressant, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic drugs, 2) candidate novel targets for drug development (e.g. neuropeptides), 3) pharmacological characterization of novel radiotracers for neuroimaging, 4) developmental pharmacology as it relates prenatal drug exposure, 5) markers for assessing adequate pharmacotherapy, and 5) pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of drugs in laboratory animals. These research areas utilize an array of molecular, biochemical, physiological and behavioral techniques. Thaddeus Pace Thaddeus.pace@emory.edu Training Faculty Dr. Pace's laboratory investigates alterations in resting and psychosocial stress-induced inflammatory immune function in participants with current major depression and/or a history of trauma in the formative years of life. Excessive inflammation is hypothesized to result from insufficient glucocorticoid inhibition of inflammatory signaling that occurs subsequent to abnormal corticosteroid receptor function and/or abnormal cortisol release. Routine measures include plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines and glucocorticoids, activation of inflammatory signaling pathways in circulating immune cells, and in vitro assessments of glucocorticoid sensitivity (determined via proinflammatory endpoints). The lab also investigates the effectiveness of proinflammatory antagonists that target inflammatory signaling pathways (including the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway and mitogen activated protein kinase cascades) to reverse changes in behavior and mood associated with hyperinflammatory states. Stella Papa spapa@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website We work in the area of pathophysiology and therapeutics of neurodegenerative disorders. Our research is focused in Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. Current projects are based on electrophysiology and Pharmacology/cellular biology techniques using primate animal models. Physiology studies involve recording of neuronal activity in vivo, and pharmacology studies involve behavioral testing, autoradiography, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, etc. Machelle Pardue mpardue@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Click To View My Department Website My research interests center around characterizing retinal defects using electrophysiological and anatomical methods and developing treatments for retinal degenerative diseases. The main projects in the laboratory investigate neuroprotective agents that could slow the progression of retinal degeneration, providing potentially years of improved visual function. Such treatments include electrical stimulation produced by retinal prosthetics and anti-apoptotic agents. In addition, we are investigating how defects in retinal pathways and the visual environment influence refractive development. Lisa Parr parr@rmy.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My lab is dedicated to understanding comparative aspects of social cognition. We use computerized tasks, behavioral observations, eye-tracking and neuroimaging to study face perception, facial expression categorization and emotional processing in chimpanzees, rhesus monkeys and humans of various ages. Brad Pearce bpearce@emory.edu Training Faculty The work in my laboratory examines the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which viral infections and immune activation can lead to neuropathological and psychiatric abnormalities across the lifespan. Our work is cross-disciplinary, combining neuroimmunology and pre-clinical pharmacology with translational (human) research. Much of our research focuses on pregnancy and brain development. We collaborate with obstetricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and epidemiologists to investigate gene-environment interactions and causative pathways in schizophrenia, autism, and depression. Our long-term goal is to discover biomarkers and potential drug targets for these neuropsychiatric illnesses. Marie-Claude Perreault m-c.perreault@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The cortex communicates with the spinal cord mostly indirectly through neurons located in the brainstem. The main research interest of my laboratory is to understand how brain stem-spinal cord circuits control movement. A better understanding of the normal capabilities of these neural circuits will help assessing their potential for functional recovery after brain or spinal cord injury . Research questions are addressed using a multidisciplinary approach that includes trans-synaptic labeling of neural circuits, electrophysiology, calcium imaging and laser scanning photo-stimulation to functionally map synaptic connections. We use the mouse as an animal model, including transgenic lines for genetic labeling or modification of specific populations of spinal neurons. Todd M. Preuss tpreuss@rmy.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Emory Profile One of our major goals is to identify the evolutionary specializations of the human brain, which we do by comparing humans to chimpanzees and to other nonhuman primates. We want to understand the extent to which evolutionary expansion of the human brain was accompanied by the addition of new areas or by the enlargement and internal reorganization of existing areas. To this end, we carry out comparative studies of cortical organization using immunocytochemistry and other techiniques that are useful for mapping cortical areas and investigating the laminar and cellular organization of cortex. Recently, we have begun to employ genomics techniques to identify genes that are differentially expressed in human brains, followed by in situ hybridization and immunocytochemical studies to demonstrate where the genes identified by genomics are expressed in the nervous system. Astrid Prinz astrid.prinz@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website I study the signal processing and homeostatic regulation in small neural networks with a combination of computational and experimental approaches. Current research projects include the computational exploration of homeostatic regulatory mechanisms in neural circuits, the construction, visualization and analysis of high-dimensional model datasets, and the investigation of synchronization in networks of neural oscillators with hybrid techniques. Morten Raastad morten.raastad@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Research Interest: Our goal is to understand how neuronal excitability is regulated and maintained during challenges that the brain meets in disease and normal life. The main focus of our current research is the axon, particularly the very thin ones that are responsible for communication between neurons in our brain?s gray matter. These axons constitute around 50% of all cellular membranes in cortex, yet very little is known about how they function, and therefore also about their pathology. We are particularly interested in the hyper-excitability that can develop in these axons because it may lead to axonal damage and epileptic seizures. We have developed electrical recording techniques that allow extracellular recordings from individual gray matter axons and recordings of membrane potential changes in bundles of such axons. By using such techniques combined with detection of fluorescent signals we study the gray matter axons in thin slices of brain tissue and record electrical and optical signals that can tell us how these axons can faithfully transmit signals despite dramatic variations in oxygen levels, pH, nutrients, temperature and other natural or pathological challenges. Donald Rainnie drainni@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My lab investigates the cellular and neurophysiological mechanisms underlying emotional aspects of cognition, with an emphasis on the role of the extended amygdala in fear conditioning and extinction and its role in stress reactivity and anxiety-like behavior. Multiple techniques are employed to examine the functional and neurochemical connectivity of the amygdala and related structures in an attempt to create a functional map of the intrinsic circuitry, and to determine how sensory information gains affective weight within this structure. These methods range from molecular biology, through in vitro whole-cell patch clamp recording from visually identified neurons, to in vivo multiunit recording from freely moving rats. By understanding how sensory information is processed in the extended amygdala our ultimate objective is to shed light on the cellular processes that may contribute to the development of mood disorders such as depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder. Tracy-Ann Read taread@emory.edu Training Faculty We study the role of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling in the development of the cerebellum and in the genesis of the pediatric brain tumor medulloblastoma. Shh regulates the growth of neural progenitors and stem cells, and aberrant pathway activation leads to medulloblastoma in mice and humans. A major focus of our lab is to characterize the relationship between the Cell of Origin (the normal cell from which a tumor arises) and the Cancer Stem Cell (cancer cell responsible for continuous growth in established tumors) in the context of medulloblastoma. Using conditional knockout mice we activated Shh signaling in neuronal precursors and stem cells and found that both cell types can serve as cells of origin for cerebellar tumors, although neural lineage commitment is required for tumor initiation by stem cells (Cancer Cell, 2008). Moreover, cells that resemble the cell of origin persist within the mature tumor, function as cancer stem cells by exclusively driving tumor growth and may be a negative predictor of patient survival. (Cancer Cell, 2009). Kerry J. Ressler kressle@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The goal of my laboratory is to create a program which utilizes the enormous power of molecular biology to approach difficult and important questions in systems neuroscience. I use genes known to be involved in synaptic plasticity to examine plasticity in the amygdala and regions which connect with it during the consolidation phase of fear memory formation. I am also initiating a program to create transgenic animal models for visualizing the amygdala neurons, some of its sensory inputs and the neuromodulatory projections which together mediate some of the important behavioral responses of fear and stress. These models will create novel and powerful tools to begin to address systems level neuroscience questions at genetic, molecular and cellular levels in combination with electrophysiological and neuroimaging approaches to neural circuitry. James Rilling jrillin@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The research in my laboratory uses MRI, fMRI and PET imaging to explore the neural basis of human social cognition and to compare the brains of living primates to glean insights into human brain evolution. David B. Rye drye@emory.edu Training Faculty Our laboratory seeks to discover the molecular, cell, and brain systems underlying various aspects of normal and pathological sleep/wake behaviors with an eye on improving recognition and treatment for common sleep disorders. Bench research is driven by 'bedside' clinical observations, therefore ensuring that our efforts translate to the human condition. A principal focus is on Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and associated comorbidities (e.g., cardiovascular and psychoaffective disorders) given our discovery in 2007 of the major genetic basis for this common disorder. We are also deeply committed to deciphering the biological basis for maintaining proper alertness throughout the day. We employ anatomical, physiological, and pharmacological techniques in genetically engineered mice, rats, and non-human primates, and complementary investigations in humans. Molecular biological tools are being incorporated into our repertoire informed by ours and deCODE Genetics (Reykjavik, Iceland) collaborative efforts to mine the human genome for the genetic basis for sleep and its disorders. Mar M. Sanchez sanchez@rmy.emory.edu Training Faculty My lab studies the neurobiology of stress responses and emotion regulation in nonhuman primates. We are particularly interested in understanding how early life stress (in particular, the disruption of the mother-infant relationship) affects the development of those brain systems, leading to psychopathology and pathophysiology characteristic of anxiety and mood disorders. In addition, we are integrating studies of genetic and social factors that interact with early environment to affect vulnerability to early adversity. To achieve these goals, we have used rodent, and more recently, nonhuman primate animal models to capitalize on the experimental control and the level of molecular/cellular analysis that they provide. The lab applies a multidisciplinary approach to these questions, including the analysis of: (1) neuroendocrine systems that mediate stress responses (e.g. HPA axis function, CRF); (2) social and emotional behavior (including fear and anxiety); (3) cognitive analysis; (4) brain development using in vivo neuroimaging techniques (such as MRI, DTI, and PET); and (5) molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying those changes, including studies of gene/protein expression and receptor binding of neuropeptide and corticosteroid systems in brain regions involved in stress and emotional regulation (e.g. amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus). This multidisciplinary approach bridges different disciplines (stress neurobiology, neuroendocrinology, development, neuroimaging, genetics, primatology, behavior, psychobiology, and psychopathology) and supports our collaboration with clinical researchers due to its great translational value for human studies. Subhabrata Sanyal ssanya2@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our group is interested in understanding how our brains adapt and what happens when neurons in the brain die or perform abnormally. The remarkable adaptability of the brains in all animals relies crucially on the lifelong ability of individual neurons to change in response to specific stimuli. It is this Neuronal Plasticity (as it applies to Learning, Neurodegeneration or Sleep) that forms the research focus of our group. The favored model organism for our studies is Drosophila, or the fruit fly, which, though surprising to some, shows a remarkable range of ?complex behaviors? as it navigates through life. What makes this a truly advantageous model organism, however, is the vast array of genetic tools at the disposal of the experimental biologist and the ability to assay plasticity at multiple levels of complexity, all the way from genes to circuits to behavior. Krish Sathian krish.sathian@emory.edu Training Faculty Our research interests are Tactile perception, its neural basis and its alteration in neurological disorders. Neural plasticity in the tactile system. Cross-modal interactions between tactile and visual systems. Visual attention and its neural basis. Neurological rehabilitation with special reference to stroke and blindness. Yoland Smith ysmit01@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The main research interest of my laboratory is to understand the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease and characterize changes in the synaptic plasticity of the basal ganglia in normal and pathological conditions. To achieve these goals, we have developed a collaborative, interdisciplinary research program that uses in vitro and in vivo anatomical, electrophysiological and pharmacological approaches to study the functional organization of the basal ganglia in normal nonhuman primates and in animal models of Parkinson's disease. This work is complemented with behavioral studies of novel surgical and pharmacologic therapies for Parkinson's disease in nonhuman primates. Sam Sober samuel.j.sober@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Successfully producing complex behavior requires that neurons in the brain produce a pattern of muscular activation that in turn results in the desired behavioral output. My research on singing behavior in finches investigates the relationship between these very different levels of description - neural activity, muscular activation, and task performance - by using a range of techniques to describe how neural circuits drive vocal output and are modified by sensorimotor experience. This work combines physiological recordings from neurons and muscles, behavioral manipulations, and computational approaches to describe the interplay between sensory feedback, motor production, and neural plasticity. Shanthi Srinivasan ssrini2@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My laboratory focuses on the factors regulating the survival and differentiation of the enteric nervous system and how it is altered in diseases associated with altered gastrointestinal motility such as diabetes. Donald G. Stein dstei04@emory.edu Training Faculty We are a translational laboratory studying the role of neurosteroids, especially progesterone and its metabolites, in recovery of function after traumatic brain injury and stroke. We are highly interdisciplinary and work from the laboratory bench, using the latest cell culture, molecular biological and immunocytochemical techniques, to the patient's bedside, where we combine our efforts with medical colleagues in emergency medicine, neurology, radiology, pediatrics and neuro-ophthalmology to examine how different kinds of brain injuries can be repaired at the morphological and functional levels. Working closely with local and national clinical colleagues in emergency medicine, we are currently testing progesterone in traumatically brain-injured patients to reduce mortality and enhance functional recovery. Malu G. Tansey malu.tansey@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our main research interests include cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in regulation of glial activities and neuronal survival by Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) and identification of TNF-dependent signal transduction cascades and their molecular regulators underlying neuro-inflammatory stress responses that promote neuronal apoptosis in cell-based and animal models of neurodegeneration. We employ molecular, cellular, biochemical, pharmacological, immunohistological, and behavioral assays to address important mechanistic questions with the long-term goal of developing novel therapeutics for the prevention and/or treatment of Parkinson?s and Alzheimer?s disease. Lena Ting lting@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website How do we move so elegantly through unpredictable and dynamic environments? In my lab, we study balance control and locomotion in humans and animals to understand the organization of neural mechanisms underlying motor behaviors in general. Using a novel combination of engineering and neurophysiology techniques, and an interplay of experimental and computational studies, we are studying sensorimotor processes underlying muscle coordination in both heath and disease. Our work integrates ideas from neuroscience, biomechanics, robotics, rehabilitation, physiology, psychology, and cognitive science, addressing how neural circuits, musculoskeletal properties, adaptive process, and perception shape how we move. Stephen Traynelis strayne@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My laboratory studies the basic mechanisms underlying the function and regulation of ligand gated ion channels involved in excitatory synaptic transmission. Our goal is to use this information to understand normal brain functions that involve synaptic transmission such as learning and memory. In addition, information about regulation of the ion channels involved in excitatory synaptic transmission may provide insight into the neuropathology of epilepsy and stroke. Randy Trumbower randy.trumbower@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our most recent investigations examined the neural contributions to the regulation of multijoint limb mechanics in able-bodied individuals and how this regulation becomes altered following hemiparetic stroke and spinal cord injury. Findings from these studies will offer new insight into the neural and mechanical constraints that emerge following neurologic impairment, which may then be used to better define patient-specific interventions that target these constraints. Erwin Van Meir Evanmei@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website We are investigating a novel mechanism to explain the development of hypoxia and pseudopalisading necrosis in glioblastoma based on vaso-occlusive and regression events; mechanisms that are relevant to angiogenesis and more aggressive tumor growth. To target the hypoxic fraction of tumors that is a major physiological inducer of angiogenesis and tumor progression as well as an important cause for chemo- and radio-resistance we developed two novel lines of therapeutic agents. These include oncolytic adenoviruses that restrictively replicate in and lyse hypoxic/HIF-1 expressing cells as well as natural product-like small molecules that inhibit Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1 (HIF-1), a transcription factor that activates hypoxia-responsive genes such as those encoding the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and glycolytic enzymes. Our aim is to now combine these novel agents with the anti-tumor properties of angiogenesis inhibitors towards clinical testing. David L. Walker dlwalke@emory.edu Training Faculty The general goal of our research is develop a deeper understanding of the neural circuitry and neuro-pharmacology of fear and anxiety. To do this, we use behavioral techniques such as Pavlovian fear conditioning in rats and mice, and fear measures such as fear-potentiated startle and freezing. Neural substrates are studied using intra-cranial drug infusions, inactivation and lesion techniques, in vivo microdialysis with high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), fos imaging, and tract tracing. We are currently exploring what we believe to be fundamental distinctions between short- and long-duration fear states. We believe the latter are more anxiety like, and arguably, a better model for clinical disorders such as PTSD. Elaine Walker psyefw@emory.edu Training Faculty Psychotic disorders involve an abnormality in central nervous system functioning. Our research program is concerned with shedding light on the nature and origins of this abnormality, its interaction with adolescent neuromaturational processes, and the role of environmental stressors in triggering psychotic episodes. We are studying the developmental precusors of psychosis in order to identify premorbid manifestations of dysfunction, including neurohormonal and genetic factors. Research on stress hormones and their effects on cognitive functions and brain structural and functional characteristics is also being conducted. Lary Walker lary.walker@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our lab works on developing more representative transgenic models of Alzheimer's disease; clarifying the mechanisms whereby amyloid proteins form pathogenic assemblies in vivo; and the role of aging in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Areas of particular interest include the seeded induction of proteopathy in the brain, somatic cell gene transfer, and evaluating the efficacy and safety of therapeutic immunization for Alzheimer's disease in animal models. Stephen Warren swarren@genetics.emory.edu Training Faculty Our laboratory seeks to understand the genetic basis of neuropsychiatric disease. A longstanding interest is in inherited cognitive deficiencies, such as fragile X syndrome and autism. For fragile X, the field has matured from our initial cloning of the responsible gene to now conducting drug screens and clinical investigations. For autism we are still searching for responsible genes, but now using cutting edge technologies made available through the genome project. Similarly, we have two large studies underway examining genomic variation (both in sequence and in structure) seeking genetic contributions to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder predisposition using case/control as well as family-based approaches. Ling Wei lwei7@emory.edu Training Faculty Research in my lab focuses on the mechanism of cell death after ischemic stroke and novel treatment of CNS disorders including ischemic and traumatic brain injuries. The major focus of my research is stem cell transplantation therapy for ischemic stroke. David Weinshenker dweinshenker@genetics.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My lab combines genetically engineered mice with altered noradrenergic signaling and pharmacological tools to explore the influence of norepinephrine on behavior, physiology, and neurochemistry. Specific areas of interest include drug addiction, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, depression, and hibernation. Jay M. Weiss jweis01@emory.edu Training Faculty My laboratory provides a wide range of training opportunities in the area of fundamental behavioral neuroscience. The laboratory utilizes behavioral, biochemical, electrophysiological, and immunological techniques to explore the relationship between brain, physiology, and behavior. A major area of interest is the construction of animal (rodent) models of abnormal behavior and the exploration of physiological processes underlying abnormal behavior by using these models. Another major focus of the laboratory is on the interaction between brain and the immune system focusing on how behavioral factors influence peripheral immune responses, and how immune products such as cytokines, influence brain and behavior. Peter A. Wenner pwenner@physio.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website The development of neural circuits requires a progressive series of synaptic decisions that determine whether the network behaves appropriately, or alternatively leads to developmental disorders (autism and childhood epilepsy/seizure). We study a recently identified form of synaptic plasticity that homeostatically regulates the levels of network activity, and provides a guiding principle for the normal maturation of synaptic connections in these nascent circuits. We examine the underlying mechanisms of this plasticity using electrophysiological, molecular, optical, and immunocytochemical techniques. Thomas Wichmann twichma@emory.edu Training Faculty We are interested in understanding the function of the basal ganglia in the normal state and in movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease or dyskinesias. These experiments will help to develop new rational treatments for these diseases that can then be used in humans. For these studies we are using a combination of electrophysiologic, biochemical and anatomical methods. Mark E. Wilson mark.wilson@emory.edu Training Faculty Our lab uses female rhesus monkey models to understand how social variables affect a number of neuroendocrine systems and, thus, the regulation of behavior. Using the ethnologically valid stressor of social subordination characteristic of macaque societies, we studying how exposure to social stressors disrupts reproduction and estradiol signaling and whether this is meditated by specific metabolic signals by changing appetite and diet preference. Using the same social subordinate model, other studies are evaluating the effects of social stressors on adolescent development and the maturation of brain circuitry regulating emotionality using MRI-DTI and PET imaging. Steven L. Wolf swolf@emory.edu Training Faculty My primary interests involve instrumented learning of motor control in human subjects. As part of that learning we are now engaged in examining associations between cortical reorganization and functional improvements among individuals who have sustained a cerebrovascular accident as they are forced to use the impaired upper extremity while the better upper limb is immobilized. Cortical reorganization is assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional MRI. We also assess kinetic changes in upper limb use during efforts to manipulation the environment. We have started a series of studies using TMS to create upper extremity muscle maps in able-bodied humans as a basis for ascertaining motor cortical plasticity following interventions designed to enhance motor control. Another focus of this laboratory involves examining postural control and gait in older adults who undergo novel treatment interventions, such as Tai Chi, which are designed to reduce or delay fall events. Last, we continue to study morphological and physiological aspects of multi-joint muscles to further comprehend their kinesiological significance. Larry Young lyoun03@emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website My lab investigates the molecular and neuroendocrine mechanisms by which neuropeptides and neuropeptide receptors regulate social behaviors. We use a range of techniques ranging from transgenics, viral vector gene transfer, and promoter analysis to examine the mechanisms underlying social behaviors such as affiliation, pair bonding and social recognition in rodents. Shan Ping Yu spyu@emory.edu Training Faculty Research in my lab focuses on the ionic mechanism of cell death in ischemic and traumatic injuries. We also investigate the mechanism of stem cell differentiation and potential stem cell transplantation therapy for CNS and PNS disorders. James Zheng zhengjq@cellbio.emory.edu Training Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Precisely-wired neuronal circuitry underlies the proper and complex functions of the nervous system. We investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying a variety of developmental events that lead to the construction of the complex nervous system. Our current focus is on the signal transduction and cytoskeletal mechanisms underlying neuronal migration, axon growth and guidance, and synaptic plasticity. Our goal is to not only provide a mechanistic understanding of these crucial developmental events, but also gain substantial knowledge on the molecular and cellular basis of wiring defects associated with brain abnormality, degeneration, and mental illness. It is our hope that these basic studies will build the foundation for developing potential strategies and treatments to promote regeneration and repair of damaged neuronal circuitry after neural injuries and degeneration.

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Behavioral NS Computational NS Cellular, Molecular, & Developmental NS Neuropharmacology Neurological & Psychiatric Diseases Motor Control & Movement Science Systems NS

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	S. Sanyal Lab - Neuromuscular preparation of a Drosophila larva showing body wall muscles (green, Phalloidin), axons (blue, MAP1B), and synapses (red, synaptotagmin)


	J. Rilling Lab - DTI color maps from a postmortem chimpanzee (left) and bonobo (right) brain


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Raymond Dingledine rdingledine@pharm.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Arthur W. English art@cellbio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Andrew Escayg aescayg@genetics.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Victor Faundez faundez@cellbio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Jonathan D. Glass jglas03@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Mark M. Goodman mgoodma@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Shannon Gourley shannon.l.gourley@emory.edu

Training Faculty

James Greene jggreen@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Robert Gross robert_gross@emory.org

Training Faculty

Ying Guo yguo2@sph.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Randy A. Hall rhall@pharm.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Criss Hartzell criss@cellbio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

John R. Hepler jhepler@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Ellen Hess ejhess@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Shawn Hochman shawn.hochman@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Leonard Howell lhowell@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Xiaoping Hu xhu@bme.emory.edu

Training Faculty

P. Michael Iuvone miuvone@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Dieter Jaeger djaeger@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Andrew Jenkins ajenki2@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Peng Jin peng.jin@emory.edu

Training Faculty

H. A. (Buz) Jinnah hjinnah@emory.edu