Dong Yan
Associate Professor of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
we are interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying neural circuit formation during development and degeneration in aging. In my lab, We use a free-living tiny roundworm, called Caenorhabditis elegans
, as a model. The defined cell lineage, completely mapped connectome and rapid life cycle of this organism greatly facilitate investigating nervous system at the subcellular resolution. Combining classic genetic analysis with in vivo
live imaging technique and molecular and cellular manipulations, we are discovering conserved mechanisms playing key roles in neural circuit formation, gap junction dynamics and neurodegeneration
Current Appointments & Affiliations
- Associate Professor of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Basic Science Departments 2022
- Associate Professor in Neurobiology, Neurobiology, Basic Science Departments 2022
- Associate Professor of Cell Biology, Cell Biology, Basic Science Departments 2022
- Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, University Institutes and Centers 2013
- Affiliate of the Duke Regeneration Center, Regeneration Next Initiative, Basic Science Departments 2021
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