Understanding how to maintain a nervous system.

Neurons are subjected to continuous strain, mostly due to body movement and their location within skin, muscles, organs, and joints.  Excessive mechanical strain, or shear stress due to external or internal traumas, can trigger degeneration.  Virtually every neuron, including those of the central nervous system, is susceptible to different types of strain insults and mechanical strain has been implicated in the progression of neurodegenerative disease. The aim of the Coakley lab is to understand the molecular mechanisms that protect against motion-induced injury in order to ensure that neurons maintain their correct structure and function throughout life.