Epigenetic regulation of neuronal development

Professor Riccio is a neuroscientist studying chromatin – the mix of DNA and proteins that makes up the nuclei of cells. She is particularly interested in how physiological stimuli, such as neurotrophins, neurotransmitters and synaptic activity, induce dynamic changes in chromatin and associated gene expression. Professor Riccio plans to explore the molecular mechanisms that allow the neurotransmitter nitric oxide to modify chromatin in developing neurons. Her research will help elucidate how external stimuli drive heritable changes in neurons. This work could also further our understanding of neurodegenerative disorders caused by mutations in the proteins that regulate chromatin.