Summary of Research By employing animal models of Parkinson's disease and a combination of gene therapy, chemogenetic and neurochemical techniques, we examine the role of various neurocircuits and neurotransmitters responsible for this debilitating disorder. Just as importantly, we explore pharmacological targets within the brain that may aid in the development of more efficacious treatment for the Parkinsonian patient. Our projects, funded by the National Institutes of Health and various foundations, investigate neuroplasticity in the movement systems that may provide a novel target for the reduction of Parkinsonian symptoms and side effects that occur as a result of chronic drug therapy. Mentoring Philosophy Under this mentorship model, trainees will develop a multi-faceted investigational approach and master cutting-edge neuroscience techniques that will lead to the design, execution and communication of sound and innovative research. As part of this process, they are strongly encouraged to cross-train with other faculty, here and at other institutions, to foster collaborative acumen and diversify their technical skill set. I also encourage grant development and writing, so students can experience this process so critical to success in our field. Representative Publications (+graduate student author, *undergraduate student author): *Holden, H., *Venkatesh, S., +Budrow, C., *Nezaria, S., Coyle, M., +Centner, A., +Lipari, N., +McManus, G., Bishop, C. (2024). The effects of L-DOPA on gait abnormalities in a unilateral 6-OHDA rat model of Parkinson’s disease. Physiology and Behavior 8;281:114563. (PMID: 38723388). +Centner, A., +Del Priore, I., +Chambers, N., *Cohen, S., *Terry, M., Coyle, M., Glinski, J., Sortwell, C., Bishop, C. (2024). Characterization of striatal dopamine dynamics in the pre-formed fibril rat model of Parkinson’s disease. European Journal of Neuroscience Apr;59(7):1585-1603. (PMID: 38356120). +Conti-Mazza, M.M., +Centner, A., Werner, D.F., Bishop, C. (2023). Striatal serotonin transporter gain-of-function in L-DOPA-treated hemi-parkinsonian rats. Brain Research Jul 15;1811:148381. (PMID: 37127174) +Budrow, C., *Elder, K., Coyle, M., +Centner, A., +Lipari, N., *Cohen, S., Glinski, J., *Kinzonzi, N., *Wheelis, E., +McManus, G., Manfredsson, F.P., Bishop, C. (2023). Broad serotonergic actions of Vortioxetine as a promising avenue for the treatment of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia. Cells 12(6):837. (PMID: 36980178). +Lipari, N., +Centner, A., Glinski, J., *Cohen, S.R., Manfredsson, F.P. and Bishop, C. (2022). Characterizing the relationship between L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia and psychosis-like behaviors in a bilateral rat model of Parkinson’s disease. Neurobiology of Disease 176:105965. (PMID: 36526089).
Christopher R. Bishop
Professor/Director of Undergraduate Integrative Neuroscience Program
Psychology
Background
Movement is an ancient and basic function that is integral to the survival of the individual and species. As such, disorders of movement have a profound impact on all facets of life. One of the most common movement disorders is Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that compromises dopaminergic areas of the brain rendering the individual unable to initiate, coordinate and execute movement.
I am both a mentor and scientist and I would have it no other way. It is not an exaggeration to say that my students are the secret to my success. Regardless of level, the mentor-mentee relationship is an active collaboration. Graduate students in my laboratory, through study and experience, will learn to expertly apply the scientific method to timely research questions, accelerating their trajectory to confident, thoughtful and independent scientists. Education
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