Synaptic connections between pyramidal neurons and GABAergic interneurons. The neurons were labeled with bicytin during patch clamp recording and reconstructed with Neurolucida system.

The Gao Lab

Wen-Jun Gao, PhD, Professor, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy

Wen-Jun Gao, PhD
Professor, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy

Contact Us

   215.991.8907 (Office)
   215.991.8473 (Lab)
   215.843.9082 (Fax)
  wg38@drexel.edu

Synaptic signaling in the prefrontal cortex: Impact on cognition and social behavior

The research in the Gao Laboratory is aimed at understanding the functional plasticity of the developing prefrontal cortex and neuropsychiatric disorders associated with the prefrontal cortex, such as schizophrenia, autism and ADHD.

Research Interests

  • Functional plasticity of developing prefrontal cortex and cognitive functions associated with this cortical region
  • Synaptic and cellular mechanisms of neuronal network activity in the prefrontal cortex
  • Molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying synaptic transmission and monoaminergic regulation of the prefrontal function
  • Neurobiology of psychiatric disorders associated with the prefrontal cortex and limbic systems, such as schizophrenia, autism and ADHD

Learn more about Gao Laboratory research.