The Neural Engineering for Restoring Vision (NERV) lab studies how the visual system develops, remodels, and can be repaired after injury or disease. We engineer ex vivo and stem cell-derived models of the retina, optic nerve, and retinorecipient targets in the brain to uncover the principles of neuroplasticity. By combining electrophysiology, tissue engineering, and cell transplantation, we are developing tools to study how transplanted neurons integrate into host circuits and using transplantation itself as a strategy to restore vision. Our goal is to translate fundamental discoveries into therapies that promote remodeling, repair, and recovery in the visual system.
Visit the NERV lab website: nervlab.bio
WHAT WE’RE UP TO
- Organoid and organ-chip models – Engineering retinal tissues to study neural circuit formation and donor-host integration
- Neuron transplantation therapies – Developing strategies to restore vision lost to glaucoma and other optic neuropathies
- Activity modulation tools – Using chemogenetic and optogenetic approaches to tune donor and host neuron activity and study neuroplasticity
- High-density electrophysiology – Applying advanced recordings to map connectivity and assess the recovery of vision after transplantation
