Laurence Trussell, Ph.D.

Research Program Award (R35)
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Institution
Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR

Dr. Trussell examines the functional specialization of different components of the neuron. His work has challenged classical views of neuronal function, for example, through the demonstration of unique roles for neurotransmitter receptors in modifying axon and synaptic communication. For this project, he will study how the spread of subthreshold signals in the soma modulates neuronal excitation, using fluorescent labeling of specific neuronal components. By revealing how neurons modify their signaling, these findings will inform our understanding of how neural circuits develop and how they might be sensitive to different endogenous neuromodulators and pharmaceutical agents.