Neural Development and Plasticity

The mature nervous system is incredibly complex, containing billions of synapses and millions of neurons and glial cells.  Astonishingly, this multifarious tissue is derived from a simple, single layer of cells (the neural plate) during early stages of embryonic development.  These neural plate cells (neural stem cells) experience hundreds of inductive steps to ultimately form distinct cell types with the appropriate connections and functions.  Research in the Department of Neuroscience includes programs that are centered on defining and understanding some of the numerous mechanisms that promote the formation of nervous tissue.   Specifically, faculty programs involve understanding mechanisms that control the migration and specification of neural crest cells (Dr. P. Henion), the growth and guidance of neuronal projections (axons) (Dr. C. Beattie, Dr. J. Jontes), the development of the cerebellum (Dr. G. Bishop, Dr. J. Oberdick), and retinal stem cells (Dr. A. Fischer).  Different model organisms are used, including zebrafish, chickens and rodents.

Christine E. Beattie, Ph.D.
Paul D. Henion, Ph.D.
James D. Jontes, Ph. D.
Georgia A. Bishop, Ph.D.
Andy Fischer, Ph.D.