George W Huntley, PhD

Specific Research Interests: Development and Plasticity of Synaptic Circuit Structure and Function

* Mouse models of autism and Parkinson's disease

* Synaptic plasticity

* Development of cortical connectivity

* Synaptic cell adhesion molecules

Dr. Huntley's laboratory uses multidisciplinary approaches to investigate mechanisms through which strength and organization of synaptic connection are modified during development or adulthood by experience or by genetic mutations that lead to autism or Parkinson's disease.

Synapse structure and function is continuously modified during development and throughout life by experience, such as learning new skills or forming new memories. Such synaptic plasticity is thus critical for normal brain function. Synapse development and plasticity can also become derailed by genetic mutations that lead to autism or other neurological or psychiatric diseases, including familial forms of Parkinson's disease. Dr. Huntley's research uses principally mouse models to focuse on mechanisms of synaptic plasticity through which synaptic structure and function are modified by experience or genetic mutation.

Research projects include:
1) the role of synaptic adhesion proteins in synapse and circuit development and plasticity;

2) molecules and mechanisms regulating corticostriatal circuit development and plasticity in autism and Parkinson's disease models.