Post date: 7/20/2019
Our work revealed visual experience-induced homeostatic structural plasticity regulating dendrite size in the developing Drosophila larval visual circuit. In contrast to the long-standing belief that the fly brain is hard-wired, our studies illustrated striking homeostatic structural adaptations that contribute to the regulation of dendrite development. Conceptually similar to the homeostatic regulation of synaptic strength and efficacy, homeostatic structural plasticity demonstrates a persistent impact on neuronal intrinsic excitability and circuit properties but remains largely uncharacterized. Taking advantage of the exceptional optical and genetic accessibility of the larval visual circuit, we performed large scale genetic screens and analyzed candidate genes using in vivo imaging studies. In combination with cell-specific RNA-seq analyses and optical functional recordings, our genetic studies offer insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying structural plasticity during development.
The Drosophila system allows rapid identification and systematic analyses of novel molecular pathways using anatomical, physiological and behavioral approaches. Currently, we are performing experiments to: identify the molecular machinery regulating dendrite morphogenesis and structural plasticity; determine cellular mechanisms mediating visually-guided behaviors in Drosophila larvae; and investigate the functional consequences of deficits in homeostatic neuronal plasticity.
Lab members:
- Jun Yin, PhD, Research Fellow
- Chengyu Sheng, Postdoctoral IRTA Fellow
- Anna Kim, Post baccalaureate IRTA Fellow
- Justin Rosenthal, B.S., Graduate Student
- Jacob Short, Laboratory Manager
- Emma Spillman, Post baccalaureate IRTA Fellow
Roles and Responsibilities
The Dendrite Morphogenesis and Plasticity Unit at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has a postdoctoral fellow position to study dendrite development and experience-dependent structural plasticity.
About You
The applicant should have a recent (less than 3 years) PhD degree in Neuroscience, Physiology or Cell Biology. Individuals with research experience in genetics, imaging techniques and a history of solid prior publications are preferred.
Application
Contact Dr. Quan YuanBack to All Jobs and Recruitment
