NEUROGENETICS
Genetic control of neural development, physiology and behaviour

We use molecular biology, genetics, transcriptomics, optogenetics, advanced imaging and behavioural approaches to study how genes control the formation and function of the brain

Our laboratory applies a ‘neurogenetic’ approach that relies on the modification of specific genes or molecular processes and the study of the consequences of these changes on the cellular activities that underlie the development and function of the nervous system. For this, we exploit the advanced genetics and relative simplicity of the Drosophila brain where all neurons and synaptic connections have now been mapped; this enables us to test ideas quickly and deduce general principles on how genes control the biology of neurons in all organisms, including humans.

Much of our work uses a specific group of genes – the Hox genes – which encode an evolutionary conserved family of transcription factors required for the correct formation and function of the nervous system. We make use of the Hox system to study how RNA regulation – particularly, microRNA regulation – affects the development, function and degeneration of the nervous system. Our work explores: (i) neurodevelopmental processes, (ii) physiological processes in the fully-formed organism, and (iii) how the developmental programme transitions into the neurophysiological programme.

The lab is driven by an international group of talented Post-docs, PhD students and Technicians with diverse backgrounds and interests that range from molecular biology, development, neurophysiology and behaviour. The common denominator across all lab members is our strong commitment to understand how gene regulatory programmes control the formation and function of the brain.

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Informal enquiries about joining the lab are very welcome and should be addressed to: c.alonso@sussex.ac.uk