Synapses are fundamental structures that underlie all neuronal connectivity, and information processing in the brain. Plasticity of synapses during development is critical to the correct wiring of the brain and many neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders result from dysregulation of synaptic function and plasticity.
Our laboratory are investigating the mechanisms that underlie these disruption in disorders such as Fragile X Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorders and affective disorders such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
Synaptic plasticity is also a key substrate of information storage in the brain and is required for the formation, consolidation and retrieval of memories. We are studying the mechanisms of plasticity in the brain and how these relate to memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
https://contractorlab.org/research/
