Molecular Neuroscience
Understanding the specific molecular events which
mediate neuronal physiology and pathophysiology is crucial to
understanding the behavior of the nervous system at the systems level.
Investigators in our department use a variety of molecular
genetic and biochemical tools such as genetic screens, RNAi, and single
molecule biophysics to elucidate how single proteins contribute to
neuronal physiology. Areas of emphasis include protein folding and
molecular chaperones, ion channels and receptors, synaptic physiology,
neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration.