At Y lab, we remember we are peacetime warriors combating devastating human diseases by pushing the endless frontiers in science.
Research Mission
Our lab aims to advance pharmacogenomics and precision medicine to treat diseases of the nervous system (epilepsy, autism, dementia, and pain among others), promote functional recovery of the injured spinal cord/brain, and originate satisfactory solutions to manage cancer and its neurological complications.
One main focus of the lab is on disorders related to SCN2A genetic variants, recently discovered as a leading monogenic cause of autism and epilepsy. SCN2A gene encodes the voltage-gated sodium channel Nav1.2, mediating neuronal action potential firing in the central nervous system. We use mouse models and Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) derived neuron, microglia, and brain organoid models for disease modeling and identifying disease mechanisms. We also develop next-generation therapeutics to tackle the disorders with the ultimate goal of treating patients.
Training Mission
Our lab aims to train future leaders in science and society with critical and hypothesis-driven thinking, teamwork and leadership spirit, and the desire and ability to get things done to make a dent in the universe.
Vincent Van Gogh had epilepsy and possibly fell on the autism spectrum.
Yang lab short video: "we will fight for you"
We are hiring several postdocs, graduate students, and technicians to work on exciting projects funded by 5-year NIH R01s. Please check the job posting as well as Science Career, and contact Dr. Yang Yang for opportunities.