Brian D. McCabe
WELCOME

Our laboratory investigates the development, function and plasticity of synapses - the specialized connections that allow communication between neurons.

Synapses are not static structures - but dynamically alter in number, function, shape and complexity during development and throughout adult life. The most remarkable capabilities of the brain such as learning and memory storage are thought to be possible through this plastic ability of synapses to change in response to experience. Many synapses have exquisitely specialized roles - for example neuromuscular junction synapses between motor neurons and muscles cells are adapted to amplify small neuronal impulses into large muscle contractions. A molecular understanding of how synapses develop, specialize and modify is a key step to illuminating the workings of the human brain and may aid in the treatment of neurological diseases like autism and schizophrenia as well as peripheral neuropathies such as ALS and SMA.

The goal of our lab is identify the molecular signaling pathways that regulate synapse growth and change, decipher how activity modulates these pathways in neuronal circuits and to characterize the essential molecular building blocks required for synaptic architectural construction. To address these questions, we study the synapses of Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. Drosophila shares not only extensive genetic conservation to humans but also many of the same morphological, physiological and behavioral complexities. Members of the lab bring their expertise on genetics, imaging, electrophysiology, molecular biology and biochemistry to collaborate on a number of projects arising from our screens for mutants that disrupt synapse development and function.

Prospective undergraduates, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows interested in joining our lab should contact Brian McCabe with a resume.