Johns Hopkins University, Department of Neuroscience
 

 

 

 

Ellen  Hess, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Neurology

Telephone Number:   410-502-7511

Fax Number:   410-614-8585

Department of Neurology

Johns Hopkins University

600 N. Wolfe Street

Baltimore, MD 21287

Room: Meyer 6-181
ehess@jhmi.edu

Genetic regulation of behavior

     Our investigations focus on determining the molecular genetic basis of inherited neurologic disorders, particularly movement disorders. We are currently interested in the molecular mechanisms regulating two classes of movement disorders including dystonia and hyperactivity disorders such as ADHD and Tourette syndrome. We use neurological mouse mutants, transgenics and knockout,s to model brain dysfunction on the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels. Incorporating classical neuroscience techniques, including pharmacology, behavior and anatomy, with genetics and molecular biology provides a global approach to unraveling these disorders. For example, we have identified a gene that causes hyperactivity in mice and have rescued the hyperactivity using a transgenic gene replacement strategy; we are currently using behavioral and cellular pharmacology to understand the cellular mechanisms that give rise to the hyperactivity. Ultimately, the goal is to develop novel therapeutics using the mouse models as guides.

 
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