Recent publications

I study the mechanisms that regulate presynaptic homeostatic plasticity (PHP) at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction (NMJ). This homeostatic process is essential to maintain stable synaptic outputs as defects in synaptic stability can contribute to neurological conditions such as ataxia, migraine...

Homeostasis is a robust form of regulation that allows a system to maintain a constant output despite external perturbations. In the nervous system, homeostasis plays a critical role in regulating neuronal and synaptic activity. Yet the molecular basis of this form of neural plasticity is generally...

My research focuses on the evolution of the semicircular canals in birds, nonavian dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and bats, using computed tomography and other medical imaging techniques to assess functional morphology. The size, shape, and planar orientation of the canals show attunements to preferred...

My laboratory is focused on the fundamental question– “How do synapses enable neuronal circuits to transmit a wide diversity of information?” Outcomes from our work will define the molecular principles that govern how synaptic properties drive neuronal circuit output which underpins organism...

I study Synaptic Physiology in the Young Lab here at the University of Iowa. In particular, I focus on the molecular mechanisms of presynaptic function, and how presynaptic molecules drive information processing in the auditory system. We use the calyx of Held - a giant glutamatergic presynaptic...