The Receptor Biology Laboratories at Barrow Neurological Institute are devoted to exploring the physiological interaction between neurotransmitters and their receptors on neuronal dendrites.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are a major area of research focus. Our researchers hope that detailed study of these receptors may yield new clinical solutions for smoking cessation, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, pain, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder. Serotonin receptor type 3, GABAA/C receptors, glycine receptors, and zinc-activated cation channels are also studied intensively.
The Lukas Laboratory, led by Principal Investigator Ronald J. Lukas, PhD, focuses primarily on the study of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Other areas of research focus include minute structures of receptor subunits, neurotoxins, and chemical signaling. Visit the Lukas Laboratory.
The Chang Laboratory, led by Principal Investigator Yongchang Chang, MD, PhD, focuses mainly on the biophysical properties of neuronal ion channels and how dysfunction in these structures plays a role in diseases like epilepsy, anxiety, schizophrenia, smoking addiction, and neurodegenerative diseases. Visit the Chang Laboratory.
