Overview
We study how neural circuits devoted to specific visual processing tasks arise during development of the retina, and the consequences for circuit function when development goes wrong. The tools of mouse genetics are central to our approach, and we draw on a wide range of molecular, genetic, and imaging methods.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Associate Professor of Neurobiology
·
2020 - Present
Neurobiology,
Basic Science Departments
Associate Professor in Ophthalmology
·
2020 - Present
Ophthalmology,
Clinical Science Departments
Associate Professor in Cell Biology
·
2021 - Present
Cell Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Associate of the Duke Initiative for Science & Society
·
2017 - Present
Duke Science & Society,
University Initiatives & Academic Support Units
Affiliate of the Duke Regeneration Center
·
2021 - Present
Duke Regeneration Center,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Loss of MEGF10 Decreases the Number of Perisynaptic Schwann Cells and Innervation of Neuromuscular Junctions in Aging Mice.
Journal Article J Peripher Nerv Syst · March 2025 BACKGROUND AND AIMS: At the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), the synapse between motor neurons and muscle fibers, reside perisynaptic Schwann cells (PSCs) which are specialized glia that regulate the maintenance and repair of this synapse. While we know how P ... Full text Link to item CiteNeuroscience: The dynamic development of dendrites.
Journal Article Curr Biol · September 23, 2024 Protocadherins are cell-surface proteins that endow developing neurons with the ability to distinguish self-contacts from non-self. This recognition is critical for dendrite patterning and neuronal function. New research demonstrates the cellular basis for ... Full text Link to item CiteRetinal neurons establish mosaic patterning by excluding homotypic somata from their dendritic territories.
Journal Article Cell Rep · August 27, 2024 In vertebrate retina, individual neurons of the same type are distributed regularly across the tissue in a pattern known as a mosaic. Establishment of mosaics during development requires cell-cell repulsion among homotypic neurons, but the mechanisms under ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Defining the underlying causes of retinal degeneration in CRB1 disease
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Foundation Fighting Blindness, Inc · 2024 - 2029Neurobiology Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2024 - 2029Molecular and cellular requirements for Crb1 gene function in the onset and therapeutic rescue of an inherited retinal degeneration
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Eye Institute · 2024 - 2028View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
University of California, San Francisco ·
2004
Ph.D.