Chris Risher

Chris Risher is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at Marshall University. His research investigates astrocyte-mediated regulation of synaptic development and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders. The lab employs transgenic mouse models, in vitro systems, and high-resolution 3D reconstructions to study synaptic maturation.

Research focuses on identifying molecular pathways linking astrocytes to synaptic structures disrupted in autism, schizophrenia, and addiction. Recent publications (2021-2025) examine synaptic quantification methods, astrocyte morphology changes following opioid exposure, and mesolimbic pathway alterations.

Laboratory personnel include PhD candidates and undergraduate researchers. Current projects investigate thrombospondin signaling, dendritic spine analysis, and developing novel therapeutic strategies for synaptic disorders.