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About Walsh Lab
We are interested in fundamental mechanisms governing development of the cerebral cortex. The cortex is the
largest structure in the brain, essential for the intellectual functions that we humans pride ourselves on. Whereas
the cortex is complex, it provides several advantages as a genetic system for studying neuronal development:
- Neurons of the cortex are not formed in situ. Instead, they are derived from dividing progenitor cells
restricted to proliferative regions outside the cortex. The progenitor cells form postmitotic cortical neurons in a
fixed sequence.
- Postmitotic cortical cells migrate long distances away from the proliferating cells into the cortex before
differentiating. Therefore, steps of mitotic and postmitotic neuronal development occur in different places.
- A variety of mutations (changes in an individual's DNA) can disrupt specific steps in cortical development.
These mutations often result in accumulation of cortical cells in abnormal locations, reflecting the site of action
and the function of the gene involved. In humans, the genetic disorders that occur as the result of these gene
mutations can lead to mental retardation and seizures. By identifying the genes which are mutated in individuals
with disorders of brain development, we can learn what proteins are involved in brain development as well as where
and how they function.
In our laboratory, both genetic research, looking for genes involved in brain development, and basic science
research, understanding how the proteins involved in brain development function, are on-going.
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