Research
We study the brain cells " glia" in flies and mice
Overview
Glia in Parkinson's disease
We continue to explore the role of glia in PD. Different aspects of the pathology are under active investigation, including how glia 1) regulate the motor circuit mediated by the D1- and D2-Medium Spiny Neurons (MSNs); 2) convert between the pro- and anti-inflammatory signaling to control the neurodegeneration; 3) reprogram metabolically to contribute to the PD pathology.
Glia in Emotional Circuits
We are interested in glia-mediated mechanisms of emotional disorders such as the Major Depressive Disorders (MDD). We uncovered a role for microglia in a mouse cortical region that contribute to MDD, modeled by chronic restraint stress.
Glia in Circuits Controlling Innate Behaviors
We have uncovered a conserved role for adult fly glia and mammalian astrocytes in feeding and aversive behaviors. These innate behaviors are under tight regulations and we are currently exploring the glia-mediated mechanisms using multiple approaches such as optogenetics and chemogenetics.
Past Discoveries I
Glial Protein Clearance Mechanisms in Parkinson's disease (PD)
We uncovered new clearance pathways in glia contributing to neurodegeneration (PD).
Past Discoveries II
Drosophila Gliogenesis and Neurodevelopment
We demonstrated the importance of ubiquitin protein degradation pathways in glia for gliogenesis and neurodevelopment.
Past Discoveries III
Glia in Pathological Brains(Brain Injury, TBI, and DA neuron survival)
We have uncovered glia-mediated mechanisms in microglial migration to injury sites, fly model of traumatic brain injury (TBI), and DA neuron survival.
