Yi Zhong

Associate Professor
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Ph.D., University of Iowa

Phone: (516) 367-6811
Zhongyi@cshl.org

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Research

Our primary research interest is the neural basis of learning and memory in Drosophila mutants, several of which have been isolated by their defects in learning, short-term memory, or long-term memory. These mutants provide a unique opportunity to understand neuronal and neural network properties that are important for learning and memory. We have developed two model systems. First, we use neuromuscular junction preparations of Drosophila larvae because we can analyze identifiable synapses electrophysiologically. Using such preparations, we examine how short-term synaptic plasticity and neuropeptide transmission are altered in the mutants. By studying the PACAP38-like neuropeptide response, we identified a new mechanism for controlling the activation of adenylyl cyclase that requires neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) protein and the small G protein, Ras. NF1 is a common human genetic disorder that is characterized by neurofibromas and other symptoms, including learning disabilities. Our studies suggest new pharmacological strategies for the treatment of NF1 patients. Second, we have developed methods of monitoring neuronal activities in the brains of living flies, including making intracellular recordings and imaging changes in intracellular calcium ion concentration in response to odors. We are now investigating how this neural representation of odors is modified by electric shock, which mimics the training paradigm of olfaction-electric shock conditioning by which fly learning and memory mutants have been isolated. This system also opens the way to the study of other central nervous system functions in flies.