Neuroscience . Genetics . Drosophila

A primary focus of the group has been to understand seizure phenotypes caused by mutation in SCN1A gene. SCN1A gene encodes the alpha subunit of voltage gated sodium ion channel (Nav1.1) which is a major hotspot for epilepsy mutations. Over 1500 mutations have been mapped to this gene alone. We are studying neural circuitry involved in seizure generation, and what cellular mechanisms may effective reduce occurences of seizures in these fly models.

We are also interested in exploring the overlap between circadan clock and sleep neurons. Using neurogenetic manipulations and well studied circadian locomotor and sleep behaviour paradigms in Drosophila models, we are exploring the neural circuitry that governs sleep, and how these circuits are modified in brain disorders such as epilepsy.