Our researchers are at the forefront of applications based on CRISPR, bacterial enzymes that have been adapted to promote human health. We are finding new DNA-editing enzymes with a broader, more precise reach, as well as RNA- and base-editing tools that target disease without heritable genomic changes. We are also developing a diagnostic tool called […]
We are interested in how the brain produces intelligent behavior and how neuroscience research can help inform the development of artificial systems. We develop machine learning systems that mimic human processing of visual and auditory cues and construct algorithms to help us understand the complex computations made by the brain. We also build systems that […]
Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric disorder where symptoms manifest between the ages of 16 and 30. It can profoundly affect social, cognitive, and academic development. We study circuits underlying cognition and behavior, and how processes like attention and decision-making are disrupted in such disorders. We also work on changes in the brain during early stages […]
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive motor disorder that often occurs later in life. Our researchers are studying the brain circuits that are disrupted in PD. We are also developing tools for measuring dopamine and chronic drug delivery, as well as for non-invasive deep brain stimulation.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic disorder involving repetitive thoughts, urges, and/or behaviors that impair everyday functioning. Our researchers are studying the circuits that underlie OCD and have uncovered the brain connections and mechanisms that underlie habit formation and repetitive behaviors.
Huntington’s disease (HD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder that progressively affects movement and higher brain function. It is linked to mutations in the huntingtin gene. Our researchers study brain regions, such as the striatum, that are linked to movement. We also develop models that allow researchers to study genetic diseases like Huntington’s.
Dyslexia is a neurological disorder that involves difficulty reading. Functional brain imaging has found that language and visual regions of the brain are altered in dyslexia, but the mechanisms underlying reading impairment are unclear. Our researchers study the effects of dyslexia and reading interventions on the brain, and examine how factors such as socioeconomic status […]
Depression is a severe disorder characterized by a persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities. Our researchers use brain imaging to examine changes in depression, and even study alterations detectable by brain imaging that might predict development of this disorder. We also examine how particular brain regions influence traits such as persistent negative […]
Bipolar disorder encompasses a spectrum of conditions, but often involves unusual mood or energy shifts. Moods can quickly go from extroverted and exuberant to feeling “down” or more hopeless. Our researchers are using brain imaging and behavioral testing to understand changes in brain networks associated with this disorder. We are also developing ways to monitor […]
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and social behavior. A wide variation in the type and severity of symptoms is observed, but these notably include social deficits. Research at the McGovern Institute, including the Hock E. Tan and K. Lisa Yang Center for Autism Research, uses a range of approaches to […]
