Eric Hwang Lab

Our lab is interested in studying neuronal morphogenesis, through which the shape of a neuron is established and adjusted to adapt to certain developmental or environmental changes. Neuronal morphogenesis relies on the dynamic interaction of multiple cytoskeletal systems: microtubules, actin filaments (also known as microfilament), as well as intermediate filaments. In addition to their cooperative function, each cytoskeleton element plays its unique role during neuronal morphogenesis. We are currently studying the function of the cytoskeleton during normal or pathological conditions (such as nerve injury). Our lab uses a variety of techniques, including optogenetic, biochemistry, bioinformatics, biophysics, cell biology, molecular biology, as well as material science to study these crucial processes in neurons. The image above is an aggregation of neurons derived from stem cells. The actin cytoskeleton is shown in red, the neuron-specific microtubule in green, and DNA in blue. The video below demonstrates neuronal regeneration after axons sustained a surgical incision.