Built to Branch, Wired to Heal

The branching of dendrites and axons allows neurons to make synaptic contacts with large numbers of other neurons, facilitating the high connectivity and computational power of the nervous system. Branching raises many developmental, cell biological and signaling questions. Using sensory cells from Drosophila as a model system, we are exploring the mechanisms by which dendritic arbors form. And by studying the geometric and topological invariants of dendritic arrays in a wide range of different neurons, we are gaining insight into how branching patterns reflect the developmental pathways and serve the metabolic and needs of neurons.

Your skin and hair are constantly turning over-- hair follicles die and grow and your skin cells turn over every 2 weeks. When you have a cut or burn, your skin can repair, but not regenerate-- why? Let's talk about how your skin renews and repairs its wounds!