Angela Ho

Brain function requires proper networking and communication between neurons. Brain development is a complex process that involves the movement and proper connectivity of neurons. Mutations in certain genes lead to improper neuron movement and brain development that often lead to severe learning disabilities in children. We are studying a specific pathway that controls one aspect of neuron movement and brain development. A better understanding of the molecular mechanism of how genes affect neuronal migration and development will eventually lead to advances in diagnosis and treatment.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating age-associated neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline. AD affects millions of people worldwide and the disease is becoming more prevalent as the population ages, making it a major public health concern. The main neuropathological hallmark of AD is amyloid plaques that consist of aggregated amyloid peptides derived from the proteolytic cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP). Understanding the cell biology and molecules controlling APP localization and processing is of great significance for the mechanistic understanding of AD. It will provide novel insights into AD pathogenesis and can lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for treating or preventing AD.