University of North Texas Health Science Center · PharmacologyCalcium Channels and Alzheimer's Research Unit
Sarah Christine Hopp · Fort Worth, Texas
Research Focus
Dr. Sarah Christine Hopp's lab focuses on understanding the role of L-type calcium channels in Alzheimer's disease. They investigate how these channels contribute to calcium imbalance in brain cells, particularly in relation to amyloid plaques, a hallmark of the disease. By exploring the effects of calcium channel blockers, the lab aims to discover new ways to protect neurons and improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients.
Alzheimer's diseaseL-type calcium channelsneuroprotectionmicrogliacalcium dysregulationamyloid pathologycognitive deficitsneuroinflammationpharmacology
Research Aims
3AIM 01Evaluate the role of neuronal calcium channels in endo-lysosomal dysfunction related to amyloid pathology.
AIM 02Assess the contribution of microglial calcium channels to Alzheimer's disease progression.
AIM 03Investigate the neuroprotective effects of L-type calcium channel antagonists in relation to amyloid plaques.
Skills the Lab Values
Conditional knockout miceCell cultureCalcium imagingIn vitro assaysAnimal modelsWestern blotFlow cytometryDrug administration techniquesBehavioral assays