Damon Runyon Researchers

Understanding how brain cells communicate at synapses—the junctions where neurons connect—is essential for understanding how the brain functions in both health and disease. Dr. Wang's [National Mah Jongg League Fellow] project aims to develop new tools to explore these intricate synaptic connections. Using spatially resolved RNA sequencing techniques, Dr. Wang can identify which genes are active in specific parts of individual neurons within intact brain slices. Additionally, she is creating novel tracers that can map neuronal connections without the toxicity and limitations of current methods. These advancements will not only enhance our understanding of normal brain development and function but also shed light on neurological disorders and brain cancers, such as gliomas, where cancer cells exploit synapses for tumor growth. This research holds the promise of revealing new therapeutic targets and strategies, potentially leading to improved treatments for various brain conditions.