Research
Interests

Primary Cilia in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Primary cilia are sensory organelles that emanate from the plasma membrane of most neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells.  Primary cilia dysfunction is reported in several neurodegenerative disorders (i.e. Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and Huntington's diseases).  However, the mechanisms and consequences of primary cilia dysfunction are unclear.  We aim to identify the causes and effects of primary dysfunction on the central nervous system, and leverage this knowledge for disease intervention.

Neuro-Immune Interactions

How do neurons, astrocytes, and other cell types in the brain sense and respond to environmental cues?  How is this information relayed to neighboring and distant cells?  We are studying how astrocytes and neurons sense and respond to extracellular signals. We also have an interest in understanding astrocyte heterogeneity, and how their regulating factors are impacted by aging or disease.  

Neurotrophic Factor Signaling and Production

Neurotrophic factors are critical for the development and maintenance of the central nervous system.  Neurotrophic factor production is compromised in neurodegenerative diseases.  We are investigating the molecular basis of neurotrophic factor reduction in disease.