February 18, 2022
The genetic disorder neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) increases susceptibility to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Genesis Omana Suarez is a full-time student at Florida Atlantic University, working toward her Bachelor's degree in Biology. She is carrying out research in the Tomchik lab on the role of neurofibromin in regulating locomotor activity/hyperactivity in Drosophila.
How does NF1 affect neuronal circuit function? Does NF1 alter motor behaviors or influence activity levels?
Genesis joined the Tomchik lab in 2021, during the height of the COVID delta wave. Since traditional lab experiences were not possible, she began her research by setting up a creative arrangement to analyze how NF1 affects locomotor patterns remotely. As soon as conditions permitted, she began working in the lab in person. Her research is focusing on understanding how loss of Nf1 influences neuronal circuit function and activity, using a range of approaches, from behavioral analysis to optogenetics.
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