Justin R Fallon

Justin R Fallon is a Professor of Medical Science and Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Brown University. He leads the Fallon Lab, bridging basic science and translational research focused on the MuSK-BMP signaling pathway. His work investigates neural and muscle stem cell regulation, synaptic integrity, and therapeutic development for Alzheimer's Disease, Major Depressive Disorder, and neuromuscular disorders. Key collaborators include Thomas Serre, Ashley Webb, and Roee Gutman.

Research Interests: His lab explores MuSK-BMP pathway mechanisms in muscle and neural stem cells, fragile X granules in axons, and suppressors of familial ALS. Translational efforts include co-founding Bolden Therapeutics to advance therapies targeting adult hippocampal neurogenesis. His work spans drug discovery (e.g., biglycan for DMD) and novel behavioral assays for neurodegenerative disease modeling.

Publications: Over 80 publications span neuromuscular junction biology, synaptic plasticity, and therapeutic targets. Recent work highlights MuSK's role in Nav1.4 ion channel localization and BMP co-receptor functions.

Awards & Recognition: Recipient of the EndDuchenne Prize (2008), Basil O'Connor Scholar Award (2003-2005), and multiple editorial roles. Active in scientific advisory roles for foundations like FRAXA and Charley's Fund.

Grants: NIH R41 AG073144 (Alzheimer's neurogenesis therapy), R21 NS112743 (ALS behavioral phenotyping), and COBRE mentorship for early-career researchers.

Labs/Teams: Directs the Fallon Lab at Brown, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams in neuroscience, molecular biology, and translational medicine.