A Laboratory for the Study of Neuroscience and Molecular Neurobiology

The Lombroso Laboratory studies the processes of mammalian learning that are disrupted in various neuropsychiatric disorders. We are involved in translational neuroscience with a focus on Alzheimer's disease, fragile X syndrome, and schizophrenia. Central to this investigation is a brain-specific protein tyrosine phosphatase called STEP and its role in regulating intracellular signaling. Signals that lead to STEP inactivation potentiate learning, whereas signals that lead to STEP activation oppose the development of synaptic plasticity. Reducing STEP levels significantly attenuates behavioral and cognitive deficits in each of these disorders. These studies validate STEP as a target for drug discovery. Therefore, a separate project in the lab is characterizing inhibitors of STEP in cellular and in vivo models.

We're a proud part of the Yale Child Study Center. Visit the department website to learn more about the rest of our group.