Welcome to Klann Lab!
Our research is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of memory and how these mechanisms are disrupted in a variety of cognitive disorders.
Eric Klann, Ph.D.
Professor and Director Center for Neural Science New York University Know More About Dr. Klann- The research in Klann laboratory is focused on the molecular mechanisms of translational control in the brain, how they are involved in activity-dependent, long-lasting changes in neuronal function, and whether these mechanisms play a role in complex behaviors, including cognition. We use a number of experimental approaches to gain a greater understanding of translational control mechanisms necessary for maintaining long-lasting changes in synaptic strength and memory. Detailed biochemical and sophisticated imaging experiments are employed to delineate the molecular signaling cascades that couple receptors to the translational apparatus during long-lasting synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, amygdala, cortex, and striatum, and whether these types of translational control are required for memory formation, social behaviors, and behavioral flexibility. We also conduct electrophysiological, biochemical, imaging, antd behavioral studies with various knockout and transgenic mice to determine how precise genetic manipulations that either activate or abolish specific translational control mechanisms alter synaptic function and behavior. We also study how molecular signaling, translational control, synaptic plasticity, and behavior are altered in mouse models of developmental disability, autism, aging, and Alzheimer's disease. We develop novel technologies to identify newly synthesized proteins in response to extracellular stimuli and in disease models in neurons, brain slices, and peripheral tissues. Finally, we generate new tools and mouse models to study the role of de novo protein synthesis in normal brain function and in pathophysiology associated with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disease.