Molecular Mechanisms of Postnatal Neurogenesis and its Influence on Animal Behaviors

Research Project Outline

Neurogenesis is one of the pivotal events in formation of the brain, and continues to take place even after the birth. However, little is known how newly-born neurons participate in brain functions related animal behavior. The goal of our project is to elucidate the role of neurogenesis during postnatal brain development at molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels. We also aim to integrate human genomic information on various psychiatric diseases of infants and young people. The outcome of our study may reveal genetic and environmental factors critical for proper development of the brain essential for learning and mental health.