We focus broadly on the role of brain mitochondrial function in social behavior. As social dysfunction is a key component of several different disorders, we ask questions about a wide variety of diseases, including depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, and Gulf War Illness. We’re grateful for funding at the federal and intramural levels that supports our work!
Currently funded projects:
Psychosocial stress-induced neurometabolic dysfunction as a mediator of postpartum cardiovascular disease
We investigate how gestational witness stress influences postpartum psychiatric and cardiovascular health via modulation of prefrontal mitochondrial function. This work is funded by a multi-PI R01 from NHLBI to Hollis and Wood.
HPA axis mitochondrial function modulates sex differences in chronic unpredictable stress
We collaborate with the Webb, Ryan, Spinale, and Wood labs to examine how exposure to chronic unpredictable stress imposes sex-dependent effects on physiology and behavior via alterations in mitochondrial function in HPA axis regions. This work is funded by the USC VPR Institute award and is currently seeking federal funding.
Validating an animal model of female veteran risk factors for postpartum depression
We investigate how exposures to female veteran-relevant stressors both before and during gestation may influence the development of symptoms relevant for postpartum depression. This work is funded by a pilot grant from the Dept of Veterans Affairs BLRD Institute.
Role of mitochondrial function in Gulf War Illness
We collaborate with the Reagan lab to examine how stress and pyridostigmine bromide exposure affects mitochondrial function in the brain and periphery and relate to anxiety-like and social behaviors. This work is funded by a VISN7 research development award from the VA.
Previously funded projects:
Targeting Drp1-Fis1 interactions to mediate glucocorticoid-induced pathologies
We examine the effects of chronic unpredictable stress on Drp1-Fis1 interactions using both in vivo and in vitro models. This work is funded by the NIGMS as part of the COBRE center for targeted therapeutics.
Role of amygdala in social and emotional behaviors in Fragile X Syndrome
In collaboration with the Mott, Welshhans, and Klusek labs, we combine electrophysiology with behavior to investigate the role of the Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP) in the amygdala to FXS-related behaviors. This work was funded by a CAN pilot grant through the CAN network and a UofSC ASPIRE II award.
Mitochondrial mechanisms and nutritional interventions for brain aging and memory
We collaborate with the McQuail lab to examine how aging and diet affects mitochondrial function in the brain and periphery and relate to cognitive function. This work was funded by a P20 targeted faculty pilot grant and supplement from the NIGMS.
The Hollis Lab 