Time: 14:30-16:00, May 26, 2016
Venue: D326, Medical Science Building, Tsinghua University
Speaker: Dr. Zhiheng Xu

Host: Dr. Yichang Jia
Abstract:
Establishment of the mammalian neocortex requires precise control of proliferation and self-renewal of neural progenitor cells (NPCs), as well as the differentiation of NPCs and neuronal migration. Defects in these processes lead to brain disorders including primary autosomal recessive microcephaly (MCPH), Schizophrenia and Autism. However, the underlying pathogenesis of those diseases is still not clear.? Currently, we focus on investigating the multiple roles of TGF-β signaling pathway in brain development and the associated diseases. In addition, we are interested in establishing different animal models for neurodegenerative diseases to study the potential underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms for those diseases.