Erbo Dong

About

Biography

My research focuses on the investigation of early life stress-induced neurodevelopmental/neurodegenerative diseases, including alcohol use disorder, mood disorders and cognitive impairments in offspring, and underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly the epigenetic modifications of molecules associated with synaptic formation, function and plasticity. My studies are grounded in a well-established rodent model generated by prenatal stress (PRS model). The phenotypes of the PRS model include ethanol preference, tolerance, excessive drinking and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors as well as cognitive impairment. My findings suggest that the dysfunction in serval brain regions including medial prefrontal cortex, amygdala and hippocampus due to downregulation of key synaptic molecules plays a causal role in the development of PRS phenotypes. The goal of my research is to identify a novel molecular cascade, and potent node synaptic molecules (biomarkers) associated with the development of PRS phenotypes. This will provide input on the translational impact of psychiatric disorders caused by stress.

Credentials

Research