Cellular Molecular Developmental Neuroscience


	Cellular Molecular Developmental Neuroscience Home » Research » Cellular Molecular Developmental Neuroscience Over 50 faculty in our program work in the field of cellular, molecular and developmental neurobiology. Areas of interest include mechanisms of signal transduction by neuromediators, basic mechanisms of neurotransmitter release, synaptic transmission and vesicle trafficking, structure-function of ion channels, calcium signaling, synaptic plasticity, neuronal modeling, molecular substrates of drug addiction, schizophrenia and neurodegenerative diseases as well as mechanisms that regulate social behaviors. Developmental studies of the spinal cord, the mammalian auditory organ and the enteric nervous systems are additional strengths of this program. Faculty with interests in Cellular Molecular Developmental Neuroscience: 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Steve DeWeerth steve.deweerth@neuro.gatech.edu Associate Faculty The work in our lab involves the development of real-time, dynamical models of neuronal systems and on the interfacing of those models to living neuronal tissue. This research is focused in three primary areas: neuromorphic engineering, neural interfacing technology, and hybrid neural microsystems. 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. Douglas Falls dfalls@emory.edu Associate Faculty The research projects in my laboratory investigate the molecular basis of the cell-to-cell communication which regulates the development, maintenance, regeneration, and plasticity of the vertebrate nervous system. In particular, we are focusing on understanding the biological activities of the neuregulin family of "growth and differentiation" (or "trophic") factors. 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. 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. 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 ehess@pharm.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). 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Steve M. Potter steve.potter@bme.gatech.edu Associate Faculty Click To View My Lab Website New Neuroscience Technologies for Studying Learning in Vitro. We are merging software, hardware, and wetware in a new paradigm for neurobiology research, "Embodied Cultured Networks." It brings together top-down (cognitive, behavioral, ethological) and bottom-up cellular, molecular) approaches to studying the brain. We are applying Multi-electrode array culture dishes, 2-photon time-lapse microscopy, and High-speed imaging of neural activity to study cultured networks of hundreds or thousands of mammalian neurons. We are especially interested distributed activity patterns and information processing in these cultured networks. We give them a body, either simulated or robotic, and an environment in which to behave. We developed a real-time feedback system for 2-way communication between a computer and a cultured neural network. In collaboration with Dr. Robert Gross in Neurosurgery, we are using our closed-loop stimulation and recording technology to develop methods for treating epilepsy with electrical stimulation. Information for potential students: Click here 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. 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. Hillary Rodman hrodman@rmy.emory.edu Associate Faculty My lab is interested in the brain systems and mechanisms that allow perceptual and cognitive abilities, such as object recognition, to emerge and reorganize during development and subsequent to brain injury. We perform neuroanatomical, electrophysiological and behavioral studies of the development, plasticity and comparative organization of the forebrain, with particular emphasis on extrastriate visual cortex in primates. Wilfried Rossoll wrossol@emory.edu Associate Faculty Click To View My Lab Website Our main research interest is the biological role of mRNA transport and local translation in neurons and their dysfunction in neurological diseases. The focus of several ongoing projects is on animal and in vitro models of motor neuron disease to study the axonal function of the spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) disease protein SMN and the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) disease protein TDP-43 in motor neurons. It is our long-term goal to gain an understanding of the underlying molecular pathology of SMA and ALS that will help us to develop novel therapeutic strategies. In collaboration with the Emory core facilities, we use a variety of approaches. These include primary neuron cell culture, proteomics methods, generation of transgenic mice, engineered TALEN nucleases, AAV vectors for gene delivery into the spinal cord, differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into motor neurons, and the use of compartmentalized cultures and microfluidic devices. In collaboration with the Laboratory for Translational Cell Biology we are also developing human patient-derived stem cell culture models of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease and high content assays for drug discovery. 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. 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. Yoland Smith yolands@rmy.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. Alan Sokoloff sokoloff@physio.emory.edu Associate Faculty My research focuses on the interactions between central nervous system and muscle physiology to determine the fundamentals of motor control and its evolution in vertebrates. I believe that a comprehensive understanding of motor systems can best arise from comparative investigation of interactions between the multiple elements - cortex, brainstem, spinal cord, muscle - that control posture and movement. I am therefore pursuing this study through investigation of the basic neural principles that organize motor behavior and the phylogenetic constraints that limit and shape neuromuscular adaptation. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

Faculty Research Interests:

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

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	G. Bassell Lab - 3D Reconstruction of a hippocampal Fmr1 KO neuron transfected with GFP-LifeAct, an actin-binding protein suitable for visualizing dendrites and spines


	Y. Smith Lab - 3D Reconstructed Dendritic Spine in the Striatum


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	X. Hu Lab - Innovative fMRI techniques

Cellular Molecular Developmental Neuroscience

Faculty with interests in Cellular Molecular Developmental Neuroscience:

Francisco Alvarez francisco.j.alvarez@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Gary Bassell gary.bassell@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Ranjita Betarbet rbetarb@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Ronald Calabrese rcalabre@biology.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Tamara Caspary tcaspary@genetics.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Mike Caudle william.m.caudle@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Peng Chen pchen@cellbio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Lih-Shen Chin chinl@pharm.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Inyeong Choi ichoi@physio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Steve DeWeerth steve.deweerth@neuro.gatech.edu

Associate Faculty

Raymond Dingledine rdingledine@pharm.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Arthur W. English art@cellbio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Douglas Falls dfalls@emory.edu

Associate Faculty

Jonathan D. Glass jglas03@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Shannon Gourley shannon.l.gourley@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 ehess@pharm.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Shawn Hochman shawn.hochman@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

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

Training Faculty

Harish Joshi joshi@cellbio.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Richard A. Kahn rkahn@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Thomas Kukar thomas.kukar@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Robert Lee rhlee@bme.gatech.edu

Training Faculty

Allan I. Levey alevey@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Lian Li lianli@pharm.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Xiao-Jiang Li xiaoli@genetics.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Robert Liu Robert.Liu@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Donna Maney dmaney@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Christopher E. Muly ecmuly@rmy.emory.edu

Training Faculty

Gretchen Neigh gmccand@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Michael Owens mowens@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Machelle Pardue mpardue@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Brad Pearce bpearce@emory.edu

Training Faculty

Marie-Claude Perreault m-c.perreault@emory.edu

Training Faculty