Brati Das, PhD

I have extensive training in electrophysiology, especially in performing patch clamp experiments at central nervous system (CNS) synapses. I have performed single cell patch -patching at pre-synaptic terminal/post-synaptic terminals, as well as dual patch- performing paired patch clamp recordings from a single synaptic terminal. I have also trained in biophysical modeling and calculating and analyzing the release properties of CNS synapses. In my PhD dissertation work, I studied ion channels at synapses extensively, with respect to their role in neurotransmitter release. Although my graduate research was to address the basic fundamentals of synaptic functions and information transfer in the central nervous system, I have always been interested in using my knowledge and skills in a more translational setting. I was very fortunate to join Dr. Riqiang Yan’s team for my postdoctoral research experience, who was keen in understanding the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on synaptic functions/dysfunctions and the mechanism behind it. Their current research interests perfectly match with mine, where I can use my previous knowledge in patch clamp synaptic electrophysiology to understand the impact of AD on central synapses. My previous experience in synaptic electrophysiology and molecular biology enable me to perform the experiments required for the project, where I will be studying synaptic properties of CNS synapses with BACE1 inhibition. I have spent nearly 1 year in the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute and it has been a very satisfying experience thus far. I have been fortunate to learn about Alzheimer’s disease and various AD therapies from Dr. Yan, who is a pioneer in BACE1, which is a primary molecular target for AD therapy. My long-term goal will be understanding the synaptic pathophysiology in AD and the impact of drugs restoring synaptic functions, so that better drug modules/treatment therapies can be devolved to help AD patients.