Areas of investigation/research focus
Glia are essential for the function of the nervous system. We study how glial cells contribute to brain function and how their dysfunction leads to diseases. Our research ranges from functions of glia during nervous system development and maintenance to their role in aging, neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. One focus is on myelin, an insulating membrane sheath produced by oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system. Destruction of myelin leads is a pathological hallmark of multiple sclerosis, but is also associated with several neurodegenerative disorders. Another focus is on the biology of microglia, and their functions in regenerative and degenerative processes. Our lab combines genetic, molecular, biochemical and advanced light and electron microscopy techniques to study how glia operate in health and disease.