Research
Dr. Halpain’s research concerns the molecular basis for neural development. Her laboratory uses advanced light microscopy and quantitative cellular imaging methods to investigate neurite outgrowth and synapse formation. The lab also develops automated, high-content screening assays of neuronal morphology for use in drug discovery and identification of novel signaling pathways. Proteomics analyses are used to investigate key players in neuritogenesis. A particular focus is the role that cytoskeletal proteins, especially microtubules and actin filaments, play in establishing and maintaining neuronal networks. The laboratory's work is fundamentally relevant to many brain disorders, ranging from Alzheimer’s disease to mood disorders and autism.