University of Alabama at Birmingham · NeuroscienceThe Lewy Body Lab
Laura A. Volpicelli-Daley · Birmingham, Alabama
Research Focus
Dr. Laura A. Volpicelli-Daley's lab at the University of Alabama at Birmingham focuses on understanding the cognitive impairments associated with Lewy body dementias, such as Parkinson's Disease Dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The research investigates how genetic mutations in the GBA1 gene and lipid metabolites like glucosylsphingosine contribute to cognitive decline and aims to identify new therapeutic strategies. By using mouse models and brain tissue analysis, the lab explores the molecular mechanisms underlying these neurodegenerative diseases and their effects on brain function.
Lewy Body DementiaCognitive DeclineGBA1 GeneGlucosylsphingosineParkinson's DiseaseNeurodegenerationSynuclein AggregationMouse ModelsHippocampal FunctionTherapeutic Strategies
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate the levels of glucosylsphingosine in brain tissue from individuals with Lewy body dementia and controls.
AIM 02Examine how pathological alpha-synuclein affects glycosphingolipid metabolism in the brain.
AIM 03Evaluate the impact of glucosylsphingosine on lysosomal function in primary hippocampal neurons.
AIM 04Assess whether reducing glucosylsphingosine can prevent defects in hippocampal physiology in mouse models.
AIM 05Identify potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate cognitive symptoms associated with GBA1 mutations.
Skills the Lab Values
Behavioral assaysMouse modelsLipid analysisMolecular biology techniquesHistological stainingCRISPR/Cas technologyPrimary neuron cultureSynaptic marker analysisData analysisNeuroscience techniques
Output against the department
Publications108bottom 37% of dept.422nd of 671
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations10ktop 39% of dept.261st of 671
this lab
most citedleast cited
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