My scientific career has revolved around the study of protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases. To investigate the mechanism of these diseases, I have used a broad range of strategies, such as in Vitro aggregation assays with recombinant protein, disease cellular models, mouse genetic interaction experiments, behavioral studies, and human neuropathology. Although I have studied multiple proteins that underlie neurodegenerative disease, my approach has been consistent.
I have always been intrigued by the role that native physiological interactors play in the aggregation process of a specific protein. Thus, my overarching goal in my lab is to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the transition that a protein undergoes from its physiological function to its aggregated toxic function in neurodegenerative diseases, and the role that native interactors play in this transition.