The Liu Lab studies the seasonal clock and its roles in human health. We use a new seasonal primate model, the mouse lemur, and an interdisciplinary approach of molecular biology, genetics, omics, machine learning, and computational modeling. We also apply the mouse lemur primate model to study pathophysiology that is poorly represented in mice, with a focus on neurodegeneration, immunology, and metabolism.

Sakano Lab investigates FMRP's influence on auditory brainstem development in Fragile X Syndrome. We examine gene expression and its potential link to autism, auditory processing, hyperacusis, and tinnitus.

We investigate the neuroepigenetic mechanisms regulating synaptic plasticity in the hypothalamus, their role in maintaining body weight set-point, and how their dysregulation contributes to diet-induced obesity, weight-regain, and aging-related impairments in appetite.

The Varadarajan Lab is interested in rebuilding neural circuits and restoring sensory function impaired by injury or disease.

The Lin Lab studies the transformation of brief experiences into enduring memories, their impact on behaviors, and the differing responses seen in both healthy and diseased conditions. Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach, our research explores how experience-induced genetic programs establish connections between experiences and synaptic modifications within neural circuits, ultimately driving persistent behavioral changes.

Dr. Park’s research focuses on the visual system and how the projection neurons in the retina, the retinal ganglion cell axons, find their targets and form synapses in the brain. He is investigating two key areas: 1) cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the death of neurons and lack of regeneration in the central nervous system after injury and in degenerative diseases like glaucoma and 2) mechanisms by which neurons form proper connections with each other.

The Sguigna lab investigates the visual system in multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions, with the intent of leveraging technologies to further science both diagnostically and therapeutically. 

The focus of the Obata Lab is to study how environmental signals (e.g., microbiota, diet, day/night cycles) shape intestinal neural circuits and immune cell networks. A variety of experimental techniques are used, including state-of-the-art imaging technologies, viral tracing of gut innervation, in vivo and ex vivo physiological assays, gnotobiotic systems and multi-omics technologies. The Obata Lab is also interested in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of inter-organ communication, including the Gut-Brain axis.

We investigate epigenome regulation of nervous system development and homeostasis. We are particularly interested in understanding how disruption of these mechanisms lead to neurological disorders.

The Pool Lab studies neural circuits that provide a sense of purpose and direction to animal behavior and develops targeted gene therapies to re-engineer their function.