S. Lawrence Zipursky, PhD

Lawrence Zipursky is interested in how neural circuits are formed during development – specifically, how different neuronal cell types are interconnected by precise patterns of synaptic connections. Zipursky and his team work to identify the cellular recognition molecules that specify interactions between neurites, axons, and dendrites, ultimately leading to the formation of circuits connected at synapses. Working in fruit flies and mice, the team employs a variety of approaches in their studies, from genetic tools and live imaging to high-throughput RNA sequencing and CRISPR technology. Their findings could shed light on abnormal neural circuit development in some neuropsychiatric diseases.