Heather Rice, Ph.D.
Education
Postdoctoral Fellowship 2013-2019, VIB-KU Leuven, Belgium
PhD Neurobiology 2013, Harvard University
BS Zoology-Biomedical Sciences 2007, University of Oklahoma
Research Overview
The molecular mechanisms regulating the normal function of the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) has largely remained elusive despite its central role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Rice recently identified the GABA type B receptor subunit 1a (GABABR1a) as a synaptic receptor for the shed APP ectodomain (sAPP) and revealed a physiological role for sAPP in regulating GABABR1a function to modulate synaptic transmission.
Current work of the lab is aimed at further dissecting the role of APP in specific cell types of the brain and determining the consequences of this signaling on brain circuitry and disease pathways. The lab aims to exploit this normal function of APP to counteract disease processes and develop novel strategies for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Rice Lab
Heather Rice, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Suyesha Bhandari, B.C.
Research Technician
Contact
University of Oklahoma Health Science Center
975 NE 10th Street, SLY-BRC 1366
Oklahoma City OK 73104
Phone: (405) 271-8000 ext.47815