Reed C. Carroll, Ph.D.

Our lab studies the molecular mechanisms regulating synaptic transmission in the central nervous system. We are interested in understanding how changes in neuronal activity can cause the long-lasting modifications in the strength of synaptic connections that are believed to be important for neuronal development, learning, and memory formation. In order to develop a complete picture of the events involved in such synaptic plasticity, the lab employs a combination of techniques including whole cell electrophysiology, microscopy, biochemistry and molecular biology. The focus of our efforts is on investigating how the regulated redistribution of key signaling components, particularly neurotransmitter receptors modulates synaptic strength. Our research has identified a number of cellular mechanisms which couple synaptic activity to the regulation of neuronal excitability through the insertion and removal of both AMPA-type glutamate and GABA_A receptors.