The molecular logic of neuronal generation, placement, and connectivity provides the framework for the emergence of functional neuronal connectome in the brain. Our current goal is to understand the cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms underlying the generation and appropriate allocation of distinct classes of neurons in the cerebral cortex, and the relevance of these mechanisms to neurodevelopmental disorders.
 
We combine in vivo examination of embryonic cortical development with molecular genetic analysis of progenitor dynamics, neurogenesis, neuron-glia interactions, and neuronal differentiation to understand the mechanisms driving the generation, placement, and connectivity of diverse groups of neurons in the cerebral cortex. Towards this goal, we are studying the following three interrelated questions using multimodal approaches:
 

1) What are the mechanisms that regulate the generation, organization, and differentiation of distinct cortical progenitors necessary for neurogenesis and oriented neuronal migration in the cerebral cortex?

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2) How do neurons reach their target areas, coalesce into distinct layers, and form functional circuits in the developing cerebral cortex?

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3) How do human genomic changes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, and ciliopathies affect the generation, placement, and connectivity of neurons?

 
This multidisciplinary effort provides a framework to characterize the developmental mechanisms that guide the emergence of cerebral cortical organization and connectivity. Understanding how these mechanisms are altered in models of neurodevelopmental disorders will help delineate the pathophysiological processes driving these disorders.