Download Testing the Effects of Epilepsy Genes in Human Neuronal Progenitor

Testing the Effects of Epilepsy Genes in Human Neuronal Progenitor Cell Differentiation
Our lab studies the genetic etiology of complex disorders including some of the most common
forms of idiopathic epilepsy. Each year in the United States alone there are 200,000 new
epilepsy cases and over 50,000 epilepsy-related deaths. In order to develop better means of
diagnosis, treatment and onset prevention, we must understand how the genes that govern
susceptibility to epilepsy affect the neural networks involved in disease. Our lab is one of the
only in the world to have identified genetic loci that contribute to susceptibility to juvenile
myoclonic epilepsy, the most common epilepsy of adolescent onset. One of our highest
priorities is to understand how variation in these genes affects both the development and the
normal molecular processes in the central nervous system of epilepsy patients. Both our mouse
model and published studies of patients suggest that one possible explanation involves defects in
the development of inhibitory neurons from neural progenitor cells. Using cell-based assays and
RNA interference, we are dissecting the molecular pathways behind the function of the genes
involved in neurodevelopment to understand the basic cause of genetic epilepsy.
We would like to work with students who want experience in molecular neuroscience, cell
biology and human genetics. We have developed assays to test the function of genes important
in neural development that affect, for example, differentiation, apoptosis and cell migration.
Trainees will have the opportunity to learn and apply techniques in immunochemistry,
fluorescence microscopy, DNA sequencing, recombinant DNA technology and data analysis.
We encourage candidates to apply who have a genuine interest in learning how we decipher the
role of genes in producing neurological disorders in humans.
Contact Information
Laboratory of Professor David A. Greenberg, PhD
Battelle Center for Mathematical Medicine and The Department of Neuroscience
Office: RB3 5157
Phone: (614) 355-6672
E-mail: [email protected]