Investigating brain mechanisms underlie generation and regulation of the human emotional experience, in healthy and pathological states. The research is based on measuring indices of brain structure and functional dynamics via MRI (functional-MRI, DTI and Volumetric-MRI) and separate or simultaneous recording of electrical signals (scalp-EEG and intracranial-EEG).

The characterization of individual brain response is based on correlating neural activity and connectivity with behavioral and physiological measurements of emotionality (e.g. heart rate, hormone secretion, genetic expression, skin conductance, eye movements and verbal output). Induction of emotional states is achieved via film and music media, inter-personal interactions, and interactive social games. Regulation of emotions is modulated via on-line feedback protocols from brain signals in a closed loop set-up (i.e. NeuroFeedback).

The lab is also involved in studies aim to advance translation while focusing on neural markers of vulnerability and recovery with regard to post traumatic disorders (e.g. anxiety and depression), developmental disorders (e.g. schizophrenia and personality) and neurodegenerative disorders (e.g. Parkinson's Disease).

An essential part of this aspect of our work is the development of advanced new tools for acquiring and analyzing whole brain neural measurements; including applying multi-scale mapping for capturing dynamics of brain networks.

We study human movement in typical and clinical populations, with a focus on grasping and finger movements.

We are interested in fundamental questions such as how we learn to make new movements, how children develop motor skills during development, and how our motor function is affected by disorders such as stroke, dystonia or cerebral palsy. We also study the interconnection between decision making and human movements.

Our approach is to construct models that describe movement and force generation by the hand and arm, taking into account the biomechanics of the hand and the neural processes leading up to making movements. This approach gives us insights into the strategies behind the complex movements and force coordination required to successfully perform grasping and manipulation, as well as a greater understanding of the causes of differences in performance in individuals with motor disorders.

A goal of this research is to improve rehabilitation of hand function through improving our knowledge of these strategies.

Our research interests include investigations relating to tumor biology, tumor dormancy, mechanism of action of angiogenesis inhibitors, self-assembly of polymeric architectures and novel approaches to target cancer. Throughout, we have maintained an interest in understanding the biological rationale for the design of polymer therapeutics suitable for transfer into clinical testing.

Our primary interests are the molecular basis of tumor angiogenesis and the rational design of polymer therapeutics. Our research includes identification and characterization of genes and microRNAs associated with the switch from a dormant avascular tumor phenotype to a fast-growing angiogenic tumor in human cancers and their corresponding mouse models. 

Research methods used include sequencing, gene cloning, quantitative RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, cell culture, scanning electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, MALS, AFM, NMR, HPLC, in situ hybridization, bioinformatics, polymer chemistry, molecular imaging, angiogenesis assays, animal models of cancer (human xenografts in mice, syngeneic and transgenic mice models), pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and 3D printing.

The eye presents many challenges for research regarding unsolved conditions such as retinal and optic nerve assaults, damage to eye by surrounding conditions of work and every day activity.

The following specific subjects are studied:

• Optic nerve research: creating models of trauma and disease to investigate the mechanisms of degeneration and regeneration
• Investigate ways to treat corneal injury and diseases
• Ultraviolet light damage to the eye
• Research on the neovascular process in the eye and search ways to prevent it
• Occupational and environmental factors affecting eye and vision

Grants

Main projects in the lab include:

1. Presynaptic monoamine transportes and the vesicular monoamine transporter as targets for neuropsychiatric drugs.
2. Anxiolytic effects of new herbal treatment: mice models of anxiety and biochemical studies.
3. Quaternary serotonin-reuptake inhibitors as novel anti-platelet drugs.
4. Methylphenidate (Ritalin): abuse potential and long-term effects.
5. Neuronal rescue by Rasagiline (MAO-B inhibitor) in thiamine deficiency.