​Michael’s research work focuses on identifying individual genes and gene networks activated in neurons as a direct consequence of their metabolic coupling with astrocytes, in particular those related to neuronal plasticity and neuroprotection. This work aims to provide a better understanding, on a transcriptome level, of the metabolic cooperation between astrocytes and neurons, and to further establish the role of lactate as a signaling molecule. The studies are conducted on both murine models and human-derived cell lines.

Biological and Environmental 
Science & Engineering Division (BESE)

Transcriptomics RNA-seq Genetics Cellular energy metabolism Neuroenergetics Microbiota and the brain