Nicolson Lab
Associate Professor, Oregon Hearing Research Center
and HHMI Investigator: Teresa Nicolson
We are interested in the molecular basis of mechanotransduction and synaptic transmission in auditory/vestibular hair cells. To identify key players in these processes, we are studying zebrafish mutants with hearing and balance defects. The aim of our research is to determine gene function by examining the mutants at multiple levels, including the behavioral, cellular, and physiological levels. Another major goal is to provide animal models of human deafness.
Recently, we have concentrated our efforts on developing innovative ways of characterizing our mutants. These new techniques include quantitation of the vestibulo-ocular reflex, measuring post-synaptic responses to mechanical stimulation of hair cells, and calcium imaging of hair-cell transients using localized genetic indicators. With these tools in hand, we are able to gain a better understanding of gene function and apply our findings to understanding the pathology of congenital deafness in humans.
CURRENT LAB MEMBERS
- Teresa Nicolson
Primary Investigator - Tim Erickson
Postdoctoral Fellow - Katie Kindt
Postdoctoral Fellow - Cecilia Phillips
Postdoctoral Fellow
- Rachel Clemens-Grisham
Graduate Student - Weike Mo
Graduate Student - Gabe Finch
Research Staff - Norm Edelen
Fish Facility Staff - Lisa Hayashi
Fish Facility Staff
NICOLSON LAB 2009
Front row: Rachel Clemens-Grisham, Lieu Than, Lavinia Sheets, Katie Kindt Middle row: Joe Trapani, Sireesha Govada, Greta Glover, Norm Edelen, Teresa Nicolson, Lisa Hayashi Back row: Zev Einhorn, Weike Mo, Gabe Finch
