The Department of Physiology and Dr. Junwang Xu are pleased to announce
Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology
will be presenting his seminar titled
“Regulatory Mechanisms of Social Behaviors: Exploring Ion Channels”
Summary
This seminar will delve into the intricate molecular and cellular mechanisms governing social behaviors, with a focus on ion channels. We will explore how acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) contribute to social interaction, dominance hierarchies, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Highlighting recent findings, the presentation will discuss the roles of ASIC2 in modulating social dominance. By integrating behavioral neuroscience, electrophysiology, and molecular biology approaches, this talk aims to provide insights into novel therapeutic targets for social behavior deficits.
Brief Bio
Dr. Jianyang Du earned his Ph.D. from Sun Yat-Sen University in China. He then pursued postdoctoral training at UConn Health Science Center under the mentorship of Dr. Lixia Yue, followed by the University of Iowa/HHMI under the guidance of Dr. Michael Welsh. Dr. Jianyang Du is a neuroscientist specializing in ion channel physiology, synaptic plasticity, and neuropsychiatric disorders. He is an Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, where his research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying social behaviors and neurological diseases. Dr. Du’s work investigates the roles of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) and Rho-GEF signaling in modulating neuronal communication and behavior. His research employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining electrophysiology, molecular biology, and behavioral neuroscience to uncover novel therapeutic targets for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
To receive Physiology Seminar Series notifications by email, please email your request to Holly Simmers [hsimmers@uthsc.edu]