Research Opportunity - Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding the Cause and Identifying Novel Therapies
This message is from Jian Feng. Ph.D., Associate Professor
Department of Physiology and Biophysics
State University of New York at Buffalo
Research in Dr. Jian Feng’s laboratory is focused on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease, a common neurological disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Currently available treatments only alleviate the symptoms, but cannot stop the disease from eventually killing the patient. A variety of genetic mutations and environmental toxins underlie the cause of Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Feng’s laboratory studies parkin, one of the most frequently mutated genes in Parkinson’s disease. We also study how environmental toxins such as rotenone cause Parkinson’s disease. Through our research, we found that parkin and rotenone act on microtubules in opposing manners to affect the survival of dopamine neurons, whose death causes Parkinson’s disease. We have identified various compounds that can restore the function of microtubules as a potential treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Further research is underway to evaluate these compounds and study the mechanism by which dopaminergic neurons die. In addition to standard molecular and cellular techniques, we are using induced pluripotent stem cells to address these questions in human dopaminergic neurons with parkin mutations.
The laboratory provides excellent research opportunity for talented undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing a career in biomedical research or medicine. There are four postdoctoral research associates, one PhD student and one undergraduate student. The projects are funded by the National Institute of Health and New York State Stem Cell Research Program. The laboratory has published many papers in frontline journals of biomedical research. Previous trainees have gone on to prestigious institutions such as Harvard Medical School and Tufts Medical School. A good candidate is someone who has no trouble with course work and can spend time in the lab to perform high level research work that will lead to publications. The vigorous research experience will significantly enhance your CV when you apply for medical schools or PhD programs. It is expected that you have taken courses on molecular biology and cell biology. Previous lab experience is not required, but you have to be very meticulous and responsible. More information about the lab can be found at the link.
