MK801 is an open-channel blocker of the NMDA receptor pore. That is, when the receptor is activated and the channel opens, MK801 enters the pore and blocks it. Usually, MK801 is used extracellularly, but multiple studies have included it in
Congrats to Eden passing her qualifying exam!
Not just passed, apparently she destroyed it! Congrats to PhD Candidate Eden Barragan!
Psychedelics Promote Structural and Functional Neural Plasticity
Exciting new collaborative publication with David Olson’s lab on the possibility that psychedelics may be rapid-acting antidepressants. Was fun to get back into studying 5-HT2A receptors after a long hiatus. Covered by the press: UC Davis LA Times Newsweek New
Metaplasticity contributes to memory formation in the hippocampus
After initial learning, subsequent learning is independent of NMDA receptor function, but requires mGluRs and increases in intrinsic excitability. New publication in collaboration with the Wiltgen Lab. https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/how-experience-changes-basics-memory-formation/
Neuroscience Initiative to Enhance Diversity (NIED)
Thanks to Jon, Eden, and Lindsay for helping out with the NIED program today! http://neuroscience.ucdavis.edu/grad/outreach/
Time to assemble some rigs!
After some delays, the air tables have arrived, microscopes and manipulators assembled, time to get the rigs up and functional!
Lab Renovations Complete!
Lab renovations are finally complete (-ish). Divider wall was taken down, new plumbing and dedicated electrical circuits were installed, and black-out curtain hung. Time to move start moving in! Special thanks to my dad who was visiting from Ohio for helping
First Day!!
University of California, Davis Center for Neuroscience