Section: Research

James Crandall, Ph.D.

Academic Role: Research Associate Professor

Faculty Appointment(s) In:
   Physiology

Other Affiliation(s):
   Program in Neuroscience
   Shriver Center

Neuronal Migration in the Embryonic Cerebral Cortex

Correct cell movement is essential for the development of a normally functioning brain. Neurons must move long distances before they elaborate complex processes and form connections. Environmental and genetic disturbances which disrupt neuronal migration lead to diseases that include epilepsy, schizophrenia, and developmental disabilities related to these brain malformations. Dr. Crandall studies early neuronal development of the cerebral cortex in normal and mutant mice; specifically, how neuronal cells divide, migrate, differentiate, and establish their shape and synapses. His approach, using in vitro brain slices, immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy and computer-aided image analysis analyzes cellular interactions of neurons as they move from their birthplace to their final destination. In genetic mouse mutants, early developing neurons in the cerebral cortex do not reach their correct destination, nor do they form normal processes. Such fundamental knowledge will eventually enable scientists to repair abnormal cells and molecules, thereby leading to prevention and treatment of many prenatal brain disorders that presently lead to mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

Ongoing Projects

Office: Medical School
Phone: 63818
E-mail: James.Crandall@umassmed.edu

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