Research

Research Focus Areas

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Systems Neuropharmacology & Neurophysiology

Faculty: Chu, Forcelli, Malkova, Ostroumov, Vicini, Wang

This research focus examines the connections between and within brain regions to determine how output of the nervous system is organized and controlled.Using a range of approaches including ex vivo slice and in vivo electrophysiology, animal behavior, optogenetic, chemogenetic, electrical, and pharmacological manipulation of circuit function, and a range of in vivo imaging (calcium, neurotransmitter) approaches our work spans a wide range of domains including disease states (Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, neuropsychiatric disorders, and Parkinson’s disease), and normal behavioral functions (learning, memory, social behavior). 

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Ion Channel and Receptor Pharmacology & Physiology

Faculty: Ahern, Brelidze, Kellar, Vicini

Ion channels and receptors represent the target of ~50% of approved drugs. Our department has particular expertise in the pharmacology and physiology of GABA-A receptors, glutamate receptors, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, TRP channels, and potassium channels. These channels and receptors are critical regulators of the activity of neurons, and have wide-ranging implications in other physiological systems as well. Identifying the physiological role and identifying selective modulators of these targets have wide ranging implications for human health – from brain disorders to cardiovascular regulation to cancer.

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Mechanisms of Synaptic Plasticity

Faculty: Ostroumov, Pak, Vicini, Wang

Modification of the connections between neurons is a fundamental mechanism thought to underlie learning and memory as well as adaptive behavioral changes. Examining the pathways and varied mechanisms that promote strengthening and weakening of connections between neurons via modulation of synaptic function is crucial to our understanding of synaptic plasticity

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Signaling Targets in Diseases

Faculty: Brelidze, Forcelli, Pak, Suzuki, Wang

Intracellular signaling cascades that lead to the transition from healthy tissue function to disease states are targets for therapies to treat diseases. Our faculty study signaling pathways in the context of Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorders, epilepsy, neuro-HIV, and heart failure. By identifying signaling molecules for intervention, we aim to improve human health through basic science discovery.

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Collaboration

We are a highly collaborative department with projects bridging multiple laboratories and approaches. Beyond our collaborations within the Department, our faculty have ongoing collaborations with investigators in the Department of Neuroscience, Children’s National Medical Center, and the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.

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Research Training

Our department is the home of the Ph.D. program in Pharmacology & Physiology, and our faculty are active and engaged members of the Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience. In addition to PhD trainees, our department trains postdoctoral fellows, MS students in Pharmacology, MS students in Physiology, and Georgetown University undergraduate students. To get involved in research in our department, reach out to individual faculty members.