Research Interests

Research in the Guizzetti lab is focused on the physiological and pathological mechanisms involving astrocytes and astrocyte-neuron interactions in the developing and adult brain. The emphasis of our studies is on mechanisms affected by developmental ethanol exposure as in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, and by alcohol drinking and alcohol dependence, as in Alcohol Use Disorder. 

Our areas of expertise include glial cell biology, molecular biology, and epigenetics, using both in vivo and in vitro models. Since factors released by astrocytes affecting neuronal functions include glycoproteins and lipoproteins, our research interests extend into glycobiology and lipid research. To better understand astrocyte responses in vivo, we use transgenic mouse models that allow to selectively pull-down astrocyte translating RNA and to knock-out genes selectively in astrocytes. In collaboration with researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, we also address research questions using proteomic and mass spectrometry approaches. 

We are interested in mechanisms of neuronal structural plasticity modulated by extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and ECM protease systems produced by astrocytes. 

We are also interested in the roles of astrocyte neuroimmune activation in a model of alcohol dependence. 

To address our research questions our laboratory interacts with researchers at OHSU, at other universities, and at federal research laboratories.

Phone
503-220-8262 x58618