Welcome to the Yan Lab!

Research

Our research focuses on understanding mechanisms underlying neuronal development, regeneration, and degeneration.  We use a free-living tiny roundworm, called Caenorhabditis elegans, as a model. The defined cell lineage, completely mapped connectome and rapid life cycle of this organism greatly facilitate investigating nervous system at the subcellular resolution. Using cutting edge laser axotomy, live imaging, and genetic and genome editing approaches, we address questions related to neurons and glia in development and aging.




Topic 1:

Aging

Degenerating axons

Degeneration and Regeneration 

Aging is a universal phenomenon of living animals. The probability of developing neurodegenerative diseases dramatically increases in the aged population, and a growing body of evidence shows that aging is a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. However, it remains unclear what causes neurodegeneration during aging. We are studying the factors involved in regulation of neuronal degeneration and regeneration in aging.   

Lab publication on this topic: 

Topic 2:

Synapses

PLM gap junctions (green); PVC neurons (magenta)

Gap Junction

The nervous system is made up by individual neurons connected through junction structures called synapses. There are two fundamentally different types of synapses: chemical synapses and electrical synapses (also called gap junctions). Through studies in different model organisms, we have gained rich knowledge of the development and regulation of chemical synapses. However, we still know little about how gap junctions are built during development, and what regulates the dynamic of gap junctions in functional circuits. We are investigating the molecular mechanism underlying gap junction formation and regulation in C. elegans.

Lab publication on this topic: 

Topic 3:

Glial Cells

RME neurons (green); GLR cells (magenta)

Neuronal and Glial Development

The development of C. elegans nervous system resembles some critical steps of mammalian CNS development. we are studying the molecular mechanisms underlying  the development of neurons and glia. 

Lab publication on this topic: