What we do
We leverage the versatile genetic toolkit of Drosophila melanogaster to uncover molecular mechanisms mediating homeostatic stabilization of synaptic transmission. Moreover, we discovered rapid homeostatic control of synaptic transmission in the mouse central nervous system, indicating evolutionary conservation. We are currently testing whether similar mechanisms stabilize human synapses and neuronal networks in iPSC-derived systems, and exploring their potential relevance to neurological disease. Finally, we examine how synaptic homeostasis relates to behavior and evolution in the context of sleep behavior.
Our current research program is organized around three major areas:
Synaptic nano-architecture and function
Which homeostatic mechanisms regulate synaptic nano-architecture and function?
Human neuronal systems and disease
Which homeostatic mechanisms stabilize human neurons, and how do they relate to disease?
Synaptic homeostasis, sleep, and evolution
What is the relationship between synaptic homeostasis and sleep behavior?