Cellular & Molecular Neurobiology

We are beginning to understand some of the countless, intricate functions of the nervous system by studying individual molecules that contribute to these functions.  Aberrant function of genes and their products often results in disease and neurological disorders.  Thus, studies into the normal and disease-state activity of neural cells and molecules can offer insight into developing rational treatments for neurological disorders.  Specifically, faculty in the Department of Neuroscience have research programs that concern cellular functions involving nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (Dr. T. Boyd), axonal transport (Dr. T. Brown), intracellular trafficking (guided movements and distribution) of mRNAs (Dr. J. Oberdick, Dr. R. Burry) and ion channels (Dr. C. Gu), and signaling pathways that are involved in neural protection (Dr. K. Obrietan) and circadian entrainment (establishment of daily cycles of activity) (Dr. K. Obrietan, Dr. C. Ribelayga, Dr. A. Dimitriev).

R. Thomas Boyd, Ph.D.
Anthony Brown, Ph.D.
Richard W. Burry, Ph.D.
Chen Gu, Ph.D.

Karl Obrietan, Ph.D.

John D. Oberdick, Ph.D.

Andrey V. Dmitriev, Ph.D.

Christophe P. Ribelayga, Ph.D.