Dr. Todd A. Fiacco's lab at UC Riverside focuses on how astrocytes, a type of brain cell, regulate their size and influence the electrical activity of neurons. His research investigates a specific channel (VRAC) that opens when astrocytes swell, leading to the release of important molecules like glutamate which affects communication between brain cells. This work aims to enhance our understanding of epilepsy and other neurological disorders by uncovering new targets for treatment.

Dr. Anandasankar Ray's research lab at UC Riverside focuses on understanding how mosquitoes detect humans through their sense of smell and taste. By exploring new strategies to create more effective insect repellents and insecticides, the lab aims to reduce human-mosquito interactions and the spread of diseases like malaria and dengue. They utilize innovative AI-based methods to predict and test new compounds that could provide safer and longer-lasting protection for at-risk populations.

Dr. Riccomagno's lab focuses on understanding how neurons in the developing brain establish their connections, which is critical for learning and memory. They study specific proteins called Cas adaptor proteins that help neurons respond to various signals during their development. The goal is to reveal how these proteins coordinate different types of signals to guide the growth of axons in the brain, and how disruptions in this process can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders.

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Santhakumar's research lab at UC Riverside focuses on understanding the dentate gyrus region of the brain, which plays a crucial role in memory processing. Their work investigates how certain types of inhibitory neurons affect memory functions, especially in the context of neurological disorders like temporal lobe epilepsy. By exploring alterations in circuit mechanisms caused by epilepsy, the lab aims to uncover insights that could inform treatments for cognitive deficits, contributing to our understanding of memory decline in aging and diseases like Alzheimer's.

Dr. Hongdian Yang's lab at the University of California Riverside studies how the brain allows us to adapt our behaviors based on our goals. By examining specific brain regions, the lab aims to uncover how different parts of the brain communicate to manage flexible decision-making in tasks that require tactile discrimination. This research is essential for understanding cognitive functions and may provide insights into neurological disorders.