Vanderbilt University · BiologyThe Neuron Nexus Lab
Qiangjun Zhou · Nashville, Tennessee
Research Focus
Dr. Qiangjun Zhou's lab at Vanderbilt University focuses on understanding the tiny structures in the brain that help neurons communicate efficiently. By studying the molecular building blocks of synapses, particularly in relation to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia, the lab aims to uncover how genetic mutations disrupt brain function. This research is not only crucial for gaining insight into these disorders but also for developing potential new treatments.
synaptic nanostructuresneurodevelopmental disordersautismschizophreniaTNCsmolecular architecturesynaptic transmissionneuron communication
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the molecular architecture and composition of postsynaptic nanoblocks.
AIM 02Determine the in situ structures of synaptic adhesion molecules and glutamate receptors.
AIM 03Visualize the nanoscale organization of transcellular nanocolumns in neurons.
AIM 04Explore how genetic variations affect synaptic function in neurodevelopmental disorders.
AIM 05Develop new therapeutic strategies targeting synaptic nanostructures.
Skills the Lab Values
cryogenic electron tomographycell culturemass spectrometryimmunohistochemistryelectrophysiological recordingsbiochemical assayscellular imaging3D imagingmolecular modeling
Output against the department
Publications66bottom 17% of dept.854th of 1,033
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations2.8kbottom 20% of dept.826th of 1,033
this lab
most citedleast cited
Career totals from OpenAlex, compared against labs that share a department. A department spans everything from one paper to tens of thousands, so bar heights are on a log scale — otherwise the largest lab would flatten every other bar to a line.