Research Interests

In collaboration with Dr. Miranda Reed and Dr. Alexander Dityatev, our laboratory studies molecular mechanisms of synaptic deregulation and deficits in learning and memory in conditions such as aging, diabetes, obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, prenatal alcohol exposure, and prenatal nicotine exposure, and prenatal cannabinoid exposure. We use rodent models, hippocampal slices, and organotypic slice cultures for our studies. We investigate synaptic transmission in the conditions mentioned above using in vitro and in vivo methodologies. Most of our studies evaluate electrochemical measurements in live brain slices (hippocampal slices). These measurements include field excitatory postsynaptic potentials and miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents.

We also record electrical activities in different parts of the hippocampus using microelectrode array (MEA) techniques. In addition, we utilize a novel method to record single synaptic ion channel activity using isolated synaptosomes reconstituted in lipid bilayers (a technique developed in our laboratory – Suppiramaniam et al., 2006). Using these methodologies, we evaluate how changes in the single ion channel function (synaptosomal recordings) would alter neuronal function (Whole cell patch clamp recordings), resulting in changes in basal synaptic transmission and synaptic plasticity (Long Term Potentiation & Long Term Depression).

To assess how altered hippocampal function results in changes in learning and memory, we use behavioral assays such as Y-maze, Morris Water maze, fear conditioning, and plus-maze. In addition, we use western blot (PSD pulled down assays and synaptosomes) and PCR to assess protein and gene expression. Therefore, we investigate how altered signaling in the brain at molecular, subcellular, cellular, and regional levels modifies learning and memory in various disease states.

Partnering with minority-serving and Historically Black Institutions (HBUs) to promote underrepresented minorities in neuroscience research – I have over 11 years of experience being a faculty member and a researcher in an HBU. I have mentored over 16 graduates and over 50 undergraduate minority students during that time. Over 90% of these students are in the medical profession or academia with their active research program. Recently, my collaborators and I received the first NIH diversity supplemental grant at Auburn University for one of our current graduate students. I am also a mentor and a collaborator for the NIH-G-Rise diversity scholarship grant. My partnership with Alabama State University (HBU) recently resulted in an NIH-R25 (PI) to promote diversity in aging research.