Our laboratory studies the mechanisms underlying the development of the nervous system. The vertebrate brain is comprised of a tremendous variety of neurons, each class exhibiting a unique phenotype characterized by the expression of specific neurotransmitter receptors, ion channels, patterns of axonal growth, and synapse formation. The research we conduct focuses on the critical role transcription factors play in the specification of neuronal cell type during development. We are particularly interested in transcription factors of the homeodomain family that bind to DNA and in doing so activate or repress gene expression. One area of study is the role of POU-domain transciption factor Brn3a in axon growth and survival.
The Lab
We are located at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. We also have research facilities at the VA Hospital San Diego.
