University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus · BiologyPINK1 and Neurodegeneration Lab
Charleen T Chu · Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Research Focus
Dr. Charleen T Chu's lab focuses on understanding how a protein called PINK1 affects brain cells, particularly in conditions like Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. By studying how PINK1 regulates the structure and function of dendrites, which are vital for neuronal communication and memory, the lab aims to uncover new approaches for preventing cognitive decline associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
PINK1neurodegenerationdendritic spinescognitive functionParkinson's disease
Research Aims
5AIM 01Investigate how PINK1 regulates dendritic spine density and function.
AIM 02Examine the impact of PINK1 loss on mitochondrial transport in neurons.
AIM 03Assess cognitive function in mouse models lacking PINK1.
AIM 04Explore the signaling pathways through which PINK1 operates in the brain.
AIM 05Identify potential therapeutic strategies targeting PINK1 to combat neurodegeneration.
Skills the Lab Values
electrophysiologymolecular geneticscell cultureimmunoprecipitationlive imaginganimal modelsgenetic manipulation
Output against the department
Publications218top 29% of dept.296th of 1,033
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations36ktop 8% of dept.85th of 1,033
this lab
most citedleast cited
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