Alfonso Araque

Alfonso Araque is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota, where he leads a dynamic research program focused on astrocyte biology and its implications in brain function and disease. His work bridges cellular neuroscience, molecular mechanisms, and behavioral outcomes, with ongoing projects funded by the NIH and the U.S. Department of Defense.

His research interests center on astrocyte-neuron communication, synaptic plasticity, neuromodulation, and the role of glial cells in neurodegenerative disorders such as Huntington's disease and Lewy body dementias. He investigates how astrocytes sense and respond to neuromodulators, regulate calcium signaling, and influence cognitive and emotional behaviors.

The trends in his recent publications highlight a strong focus on astrocyte-mediated synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, sex differences in neurodegeneration, and the integration of theoretical models with experimental neuroscience, particularly in reinforcement learning. His work increasingly explores the intersection of glial biology with immune and endocrine systems.

Alfonso Araque has received significant research funding, including grants from the NIH and collaborations with MIT and UCLA. His projects include:

• Molecular mechanisms of synaptic dysfunction in Huntington's disease
• Astrocyte activity in amygdala-related fear conditioning
• Reinforcement learning and astrocytes
• Alpha-synuclein and network hyperexcitability in Lewy body dementias
• University of Minnesota Summer Research in Neuroscience program

He actively mentors students and researchers, as evidenced by his role as Principal Investigator on multiple training and research grants. His laboratory is involved in cutting-edge investigations into glial cell function, with implications for understanding and treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. The team collaborates widely across institutions and disciplines, contributing to a robust network in neuroscience research.