Synaptic transmission is an important cellular event underlying development, learning, memory, and other functions of the brain. Neurotransmitter receptors, transporters, and ion channels mediate synaptic communication, and their dysfunction is frequently implicated in neurological and psychiatric disorders.  

Our lab primary seeks to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of signal transduction with a specific focus on glutamate receptor mediate synaptic signaling and plasticity at excitatory and inhibitory synapses. 

In many cases, neuroreceptors form complexes, and interact with scaffold proteins and signaling molecules to localize the specific site of synapses and to transfer information. Receptor functions are allosterically modulated by interacting proteins that regulate synaptic plasticity. We are interested in understanding the fundamental roles of neuroreceptors and interacting proteins in long term potentiation and depression (LTP/LTD).   

Current areas of interest within the lab include the following: 

(1) dissecting the signaling networks based on protein-protein interactions that are required for synaptic signal transduction in the mammalian brain including humans

(2) elucidating the structure and function of signaling complexes 

(3) characterize the subtype specific signaling pathways

(4) developing novel therapeutic reagents targeting novel binding sites based on the determined structures

 We use a variety of structural, biophysical, and electrophysiological techniques including single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), X-ray crystallography, protein biochemistry, mass spectroscopy, electrophysiology, and cell biology to characterize the signaling complexes involved in synaptic function.