Northwestern University · PhysiologySynaptic Plasticity and Neurodevelopment Lab
Peter Penzes · Evanston, Illinois
Research Focus
Dr. Peter Penzes' lab at Northwestern University focuses on understanding how certain proteins influence the connections between nerve cells in the brain, which are vital for learning and behavior. His research targets the pathways involved in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and fragile X syndrome, exploring how disruptions in these pathways can lead to changes in brain function. By studying the roles of specific proteins in synapse formation and function, the lab aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for mental health treatments.
neurodevelopmental disordersdendritic spinesRho GTPasesankyrinssynaptic plasticityautismfragile X syndromesignal transductionsmall-molecule inhibitorsneuropsychiatric disorders
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the role of kalirin/Trio->Rac1->Pak signaling in brain function.
AIM 02Characterize the effects of genetic deletion of specific proteins on neurodevelopmental disorders in mice.
AIM 03Explore the synaptic functions of ankyrins and their interactions with other proteins.
AIM 04Develop small-molecule inhibitors of kalirin to study their effects on dendritic spine plasticity.
AIM 05Assess the impact of ankyrin proteins on glutamatergic synapses and neuronal behavior.
Skills the Lab Values
PCRcell culturemouse modelsimmunohistochemistrycalcium imagingneuroproteomicsbehavioral assaysbiochemical assayssuper-resolution microscopybioinformatics
Output against the department
Publications172top 41% of dept.117th of 286
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations10ktop 31% of dept.88th of 286
this lab
most citedleast cited
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