Hongjun Song, Ph.D.

One of the major focuses of Dr. Song's research is on neural stem cell regulation and neurogenesis in the developing and adult mammalian brain. Despite considerable progress, many mechanisms underlying adult neurogenesis are poorly understood. For this project, he will use a range of novel techniques to investigate the developmental origin of adult hippocampal neurogenesis, its impact on the adult brain, and fidelity of rodent models to human neuronal development. Understanding the origin and function of these neural stem cells can reveal new targets to enhance plasticity and may prevent dysregulation in a variety of neural disorders.