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, and schizophrenia. Defects in PHP can also impair normal functions like sleep. The goal of my research is to use the Drosophila NMJ as a model synapse to unravel the potentially linked mechnaisms between PHP and sleep. This will give us a better understanding of what underlying signaling components are necessary to maintain these homeostatically-regulated processes and overall synapse stability. I use a combination of genetics, electrophysiology, pharmacology, and synaptic imaging to study these processes.

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