Ella Zeldich

Our lab is focusing on studying the cellular and molecular machinery mediating the connection between Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease. We are utilizing 2D and 3D cellular models derived from human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to investigate molecular mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration and demyelination in Alzheimer’s disease, ischemic stroke, and aging. Using iPS cells, we are trying to identify molecular determinants for the cell lineage commitment, development, and maturation in a number of neuropathological conditions. The main goal of our research is to understand the crucial changes leading to molecular and cellular dysfunction in order to identify potential therapeutic targets and to develop ameliorative strategies.

In addition, we are actively collaborating with Drs. Luebke, Medalla, Moore, and Rosene in investigating the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for the differences in cellular and synaptic properties of cortical networks in physiological and age-related processes. Our lab utilizes a combination of cutting-edge cellular and molecular approaches, such as single cell transcriptome profiling, Patch-seq, molecular cloning, immuno-labeling, confocal microscopy and more.