Erik Herzog, PhD

Molecular mechanism of circadian rhythms

We focus on the roles of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and the olfactory bulbs (OB) in mammalian circadian rhythms.

Current projects include:

1. Which cells are responsible for pacemaking?
2. How are they wired together?
3. How do they communicate to coordinate their activities and drive behavior?
4. How do they relate to health disorders including brain cancer and manic depression?

We study the circadian properties of cells in isolation, in small networks, and from different brain and body tissues in vivo and in vitro. By combining behavioral assays, cell culture, electrophysiological and molecular techniques, we examine the intracellular and intercellular processes that are involved in rhythm generation, synchronization to the environment, synchronization among oscillators and rhythmic output.

More about the Herzog lab

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