Research in our laboratory focuses on understanding the roles of unconventional neurotransmitters, like the D-amino acids in the central nervous system. We are pioneers in studying the neurobiology of D-serine, a D-amino acid now widely appreciated as a transmitter/signaling molecule in the brain. D-Serine is required for the activity of a critical neurotransmitter receptor- the NMDA receptor (NMDAR)- and mediates learning and memory as well as neurodegeneration. In the last few years, our studies unraveled mechanisms underlying brain D-serine production, physiological roles, cellular sources, metabolism, and its role in pathology. This research helped to pave the way for establishing D-serine as a signaling molecule in health and disease. In addition to neurotransmission, NMDARs play a crucial role in neurodegeneration, with their excessive activation contributing to neuronal death in several neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. We discovered that D-serine is the dominant NMDAR co-agonist mediating neurotoxicity, raising the possibility that drugs that curb D-serine synthesis or release might be useful in neurodegenerative diseases involving NMDAR over-stimulation.
In the recent years our laboratory also unraveled new roles of the blood-brain barrier in neurodevelopment and discover several new functions amino acid transporters that provide serine and glutamine during development.
Our studies employ a wide range of techniques, including metabolomics, molecular biology, cell biology, in vivo brain microdialysis, brain imaging (MRI), electron microscopy, electrophysiology, RNAseq, animal behavior, and novel mice genetic models to uncover new molecular components that regulate serine and glutamine metabolism, neurodevelopment and neurogenesis. These models will allow the identification of novel pathways that participate in glia-neuron cross-talk, blood-brain barrier function and neurodegenerative processes.
The lab is recruiting new students !!