ABout
About Alix the Graduate Student
I am a graduate student in Joe LoTurco's laboratory at the University of Connecticut. My research focuses on the role inhibitory interneuron subpopulations play in the development of focal cortical dysplasias and epilepsy. I utilize mice models and a combination of mesoscopic calcium imaging, proteomics, and computational analysis to tackle these research questions.
I received my bachelor's degree from Lafayette College where I conducted research under the guidance of Lisa Gabel. My undergraduate research focused on the development and implementation of a brain-computer interface (BCI). In addition, I worked on studies of developmental dyslexia as well as the development of eye tracking data analysis algorithms. My undergraduate studies provided me with a strong background in physics, electrical and biomedical engineering, and computer science. As a graduate student, one of goals is to integrate my background in physics and engineering with molecular biology to create new experimental paradigms and data analysis methods.
When not in the lab, I enjoy rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, and home-brewing beer.
About Alix the Protein
ALIX, also referred to as Programmed Cell Death 6-Interacting Protein, is a protein encoded by the PDCD6IP gene. It is a multifunctional protein implicated in apoptosis, endocytosis, membrane repair, and tight junction maintenance. Overexpression of ALIX can protect against apoptosis by working with the protein product of PDCD6 in a calcium dependent manner. Additionally, ALIX may participate in endocytosis through its role in the sorting of ubiquinated proteins into the intralumenal vesicle for degradation. Alix the graduate student thinks it's really cool that she shares a name with ALIX the protein.