Research in the Wei-LaPierre lab focus on finding out the mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets for neuromuscular-related conditions, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Down Syndrome. Particularly, the lab is interested in the contribution of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in skeletal muscles and motor neurons in the occurrence of these conditions.  The lab employs a wide range of techniques, including confocal microscopy, Ca2+ fluorometry and electrophysiology to examine the Ca2+ cycling properties and ROS production within muscle cells and evaluate muscle and neuromuscular junction function in intact muscles and live animals. The long-term goal of the lab is to provide strong pre-clinical evidence to develop new therapeutic interventions for neuromuscular-related conditions.

PI: Lan Wei-LaPierre, Ph.D.

Research Highlights
  • Excitation-contraction coupling and intracellular Ca2+ signaling in skeletal muscle
  • Mitochondrial Ca2+ and redox biology
  • Neuromuscular junction biology
  • Using genetic mouse models to identify new therapeutic targets