The Peters Lab — the Learning & Memory Lab at the University of Richmond
Highlights
Molecular mechanisms of memory formation
The Peters Lab explores the mechanisms of how memories are formed. We study how the connections between neurons are strengthened, a process called long-term potentiation (LTP). LTP is mediated by an increase in the number of AMPA receptors (a type of neurotransmitter receptor) located at the synapse. Delivering AMPA receptors involves a complex molecular machine made up of several proteins. The Peters Lab aims to determine the arrangement of proteins within this molecular machine and describe how the machinery is regulated. A better understanding of LTP will help us understand how people learn and why LTP breaks down in several neurological disorders.
Astrocyte dynamics in neuronal function
Astrocytes play an essential role in the development of the nervous system and in disease. They shape synapses and remodel their own membranes as circuits change. We study bridge-like lipid transfer proteins (BLTPs) and how astrocytes shift into reactive states that change the support they give neurons.
Improving biology education
The Peters Lab also strives to improve undergraduate biology education. Efforts in this space include assessing the impact of generative AI on science education and designing and assessing course-based undergraduate research experiences that teach transferrable molecular biology skills.
Meet the lab
Our lab is made up of undergraduate and post-baccalaureate researchers at the University of Richmond. Students gain experience in molecular cloning, protein purification, introductory computational structural biology, and confocal and electron microscopy.
Recent news from the lab
Awards, conference presentations, and new papers from the lab.