Funded Projects

This study will introduce a vascular-like electronic system that merges seamlessly with neural organoids,
establishing an integrated vascular-electronic-neural network. This envisaged platform holds the promise of heralding a transformative phase in the evolution of human neural organoid research and elucidating the
fundamental understanding on the roles of oxygen and nutrient perfusion during neural development.

This proposal addresses three interconnected, yet independent aims focused on the neural mechanisms implicated in age-associated miscarriages. First, the proposal aims to construct a comprehensive neuro-uterine atlas delineating neuronal subtypes innervating the uterus, elucidating how innervation patterns and transcriptome profiles evolve with age. Second, the proposal aims to implement cutting-edge tissue clearing techniques on extracted uteri to discern alterations in uterine innervation patterns and signaling across the rodent estrous cycle and the first trimester of pregnancy.

The ability of an infant to distinguish caregivers from strangers is fundamental for survival early in life. Across
many taxa, newborns use olfactory cues to recognize caregivers. Caregiver odors induce proximity-seeking
behavior and alleviate stress in neonatal mammals, including humans. Since all altricial animals rely on parental
care for survival and children with developmental disorders (e.g., fragile X syndrome and autism) often have
deficits in the olfactory system, it is essential to understand the mechanisms for linking caregiver odors with
affiliative behavior.

Studying the brain circuits involved in aggression will help us tackle big social issues like hate crimes, antisocial
behavior, and violence. Imagine if we could better understand why some people act aggressively towards
others—we could use this knowledge to protect people from harm and create a world where everyone feels safe. Chemicals in our brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, affect neural activity to modulate behavior. When we experience something rewarding, like having good food or meeting friends, dopamine is released in the brain.

Brain development is a complex process where cells must self-renew and differentiate at the right place and right time. Gene regulation during development involves sequences in the genome which affect the expression of genes locally, and transcription factors, proteins that bind these sequences and activate genes throughout the genome. At active regulatory sequences and genes, DNA is accessible to these proteins, while inactive DNA is tightly compacted.