Home Department: Chemistry
Mentor: Alice Ting (Genetics and Biology)

“Genetically Encoded Voltage Integrators (GEVIns)"

A major challenge in neuroscience is identifying the specific brain circuits that drive various behaviors and mental processes. While we have tools to label neurons that are active during certain experiences, there are currently no tools to reliably label neurons that are inhibited, despite their equal importance in shaping behaviors. This summer, Michael will work on designing a new genetically engineered protein called a Genetically Encoded Voltage Integrator (GEVIn). One version of GEVIn is aimed at detecting when neurons become inhibited by sensing changes in their membrane voltage. In response, it would turn on a reporter that permanently marks these neurons. This project will open new research opportunities for studying how both activated and inhibited brain cells contribute together to learning, memory, and behavior.