Peter Juo

Research/Areas of Interest

Our laboratory is interested in identifying genes and molecular mechanisms involved in the targeting and turnover of synaptic proteins. We use a combination of genetics, biochemistry, in vivo fluorescence imaging and behavior to study the localization and regulation of postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptors. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in localizing and regulating synaptic proteins will reveal how synapses are built during development (synaptogenesis), and regulated in the mature nervous system during learning and memory. Studies revealing the function of proteins at normal synapses will provide the foundation for understanding the molecular basis of aberrant synaptic transmission observed in various neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric diseases including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), Intellectual Disability (ID), Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Schizophrenia.