The Gospocic group studies how epigenetic pathways and gene expression regulate brain plasticity in the context of social behavior and aging by working with a unique ant species Harpegnathos saltator. We take a multidisciplinary approach and combine functional genomics, biochemistry, and behavioral assays in H. saltator, as well as the conventional Drosophila and mouse models to expedite genetic screening and provide evolutionary context to identified epigenetic pathways.

Specialty Areas: epigenetics, chromatin biology, gene regulation, social behavior, aging, neurodegeneration

The Center for Depression Research and Clinical Care (CDRC) is nationally recognized for its cutting-edge research in unipolar and bipolar depression. The research conducted within the center brings better understanding of the causes of depression, identifies effective new treatments, and improves existing ones.