Research/Areas of Interest:
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a regulator of synaptic plasticity and also plays a crucial role in the central regulation of energy balance and glycemic control within the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). I am investigating the role of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) in the VMH as a mediator of the effects of BDNF on energy and glucose homeostasis in both neurons and astrocytes.
Education
BS, Biology, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA