Our research projects focus upon the cellular processes underlying learning, memory, and neuropathology using zebrafish as a model organism. Most commonly, we use molecular biology techniques coupled to pharmacology or environmental stimuli to evaluate brain function.
(1) Zebrafish are a powerful research model for neuroscience, but the similarities and differences between mammalian and zebrafish brains are far from fully understood. To evaluate the extent by which zebrafish brain functions reflect those of mammalian brains, we stimulate neurotransmitter systems in isolated adult zebrafish brains and examine the cellular signaling pathways that become active. Check out our paper published in Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience (2019)!
(2) Sleep deprivation and abnormal light exposure are linked to neurodegeneration and other defects in brain function. In a collaboration with Dr. Keri Mans in theDepartment of Rehabilitation Sciences, we are examining the effects of sleep deprivation at the cellular level in the zebrafish brain. Check out our paper published in Cells (2021)!
(3) It is widely known that microplastics have inundated every aspect of the environment -- water, air and soil. However, detailed investigations into the extent by which microplastics may affect marine life or humans that consume plastic-contaminated fish are lacking. Zebrafish are an excellent neurotoxicology model, and we will be using zebrafish, molecular biology, microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and behavioral assessments to evaluate the neurotoxicology of plastic ingestion at environmentally relevant concentrations.