Research in the Olsen lab is focused on understanding the role of astrocytes in normal and abnormal central nervous system function. There are more astrocytes in the brain and spinal cord in humans than any other cell type, yet, until recently this cell type has been thought of as a support cell to neurons and they have been given relatively little attention. Emerging work suggests astrocytes contribute to all facets of normal brain function, while disrupted astrocyte function is implicated in epilepsy, neurodegenerative disease, depression, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Ongoing projects in the Olsen lab are aimed at understanding how astrocytes contribute to development and maturation of the central nervous system.
https://neuroscience.vt.edu/people/core-faculty/olsen-m.html
