As people age, sometimes their ability to think and function properly starts to decline; the brain begins to degenerate, and the individual’s cognitive abilities become impaired. This process is called neurodegeneration, and it is not a normal part of aging. Individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus are at higher risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and vascular cognitive impairment. We are very interested in trying to understand how and why neurodegeneration occurs in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. We use human cell culture models, molecular biology, imaging, and biochemical techniques to investigate this question and explore how the physiology of blood-brain barrier cells is altered in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Injury to cells of the blood-brain barrier may negatively alter the brain environment, leading to neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. Student research interns in the lab will learn basic mammalian cell culture techniques, cellular and molecular biology, immunocytochemistry, or biochemistry techniques in accordance with the current project aims of the lab.

My primary research interest is to understand the molecular basis of the aging process, especially with respect to the biochemistry of metabolism and behavior. We are currently investigating the molecular mechanisms of this behavior/social environment/lifespan connection by focusing on the enzymes that mediate behavioral responses. We are using multidisciplinary experimental approaches, from biochemistry and molecular biology to behavioral biology and genetics. We use the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as our preferred animal model. Intern responsibilities include, fly care and maintenance, sorting and passing flies, conducting experiments and assays, and collecting and analyzing data.

The primary goal of my lab is to understand how nervous systems produce behavior. We study the central pattern generator that underlies heartbeat in the medicinal leech (Hirudo sp.). The animal has two tubular hearts which produce rhythmic constriction patterns. The neural network that produces this constriction pattern has been extensively characterized. In short, we know who the members of the network are, who they communicate with, and when they perform that communication. This level of detail allows us to address questions of broad interest in neuroscience. Our goal is to produce general principles of motor pattern generation that will translate to more complex preparations. Work in the lab combines physiology, mathematical modeling, and hybrid systems approaches to address how nervous systems produce rhythmic behaviors.

Daniel Pfarr manages the plant collection in the Biological Sciences greenhouses used as a teaching space. Facilities are also used in long term research and semester long projects. His expertise lies in orchid cultivation but extends to many other plant groups. Interns spend their time in the Biological Sciences greenhouses learning about plant taxonomy, horticulture applications, and greenhouse management. Interns learn laboratory techniques crucial to propagating difficult to produce plants, including learning the aseptic method for growing orchids from seed as well as cloning Dionaea muscipula (Venus’s flytrap). 

Sam Curtis manages the extensive collection of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates used for research, academic classes, and student outreach. He also curates the collection of preserved animal specimens in the Museum of Animals at CSUS. Intern responsibilities include animal care and maintenance, student education, insect taxidermy, and construction of vivariums for animal inhabitants of the vivarium.