Jonah R. Chan Assistant Professor Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute Keck School of Medicine

Education:
BS 1994 Biochemistry - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
PhD 2000 Neuroscience - University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship:
2000 - 2005 Stanford University

Started at USC: 2005

Research Topics: Cellular Neurobiology, Developmental Biology, Cell Structure & Organization

Research Description

Neurons and glia share a mutual dependence in establishing a functional relationship that is controlled by the integration of complex molecular signals and pathways. These reciprocal interactions are responsible for multiple processes, including cell survival, proliferation, migration, cell-fate determination, and differentiation. The formation of myelin is an exquisite and dynamic example of cell-cell interaction that involves the myelin-forming cell and the neuron. The myelin sheath is responsible for the rapid propagation of the action potential, which is functionally essential for the long-distance communication in the nervous system. My research interests are to understand these fundamental glial/neuronal interactions and the molecular mechanisms that regulate myelination. More importantly, the implications of my research agenda relate specifically to the identification of new target molecules and signaling pathways in the development of potential therapeutics for demyelinating diseases. Recent findings and advances in in vitro myelination techniques with both PNS and CNS glia give me a rare opportunity to characterize these target molecules and signaling pathways.