Research Interests
Neurons dynamically modulate their synaptic inputs in a variety of ways to facilitate learning and storage of new information. At the same time, specialized mechanisms are in place to maintain excitability and firing within a bounded range to preserve balanced activity in neural circuits. Notably, alterations in this delicate balance are thought to contribute to the manifestations of neurological and psychiatric disease. The goal of my laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanisms by which neurons modulate synaptic, neuronal, and network excitability. In particular, we are interested in how mutations in genes associated with disorders such as epilepsy and autism lead to altered nerual development, synapse and circuit function. To investigate this, we are taking a multi-disciplinary approach incorporating molecular, biochemical, imaging, electrophysiological, and behavioral analyses in mouse models and human stem cell-derived brain organoids. Through this diversity of approaches we hope to understand how molecular and genetic events change cellular and network function to ultimately impact behavior.