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The primary focus of our laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis – the pathological process which transforms a normal brain into an epileptic brain. We are specifically interested in how the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/autophagy pathway governs normal brain functions and how dysregulation of this pathway leads to epilepsy. We do so by focusing on microglia, a type of brain cells that plays a critical role in CNS homeostasis. Specifically, we are evaluating how altered mTOR activity in microglia disrupts brain homeostasis and promotes epileptogenesis. We hope to find novel therapeutic targets to prevent epilepsy.