Kimberley Tolias

Kimberley Tolias, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Departments of Neuroscience and Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at Baylor College of Medicine. She holds a PhD in Cell Biology from Harvard Medical School and a BS in Biochemistry from the University of Minnesota. Her research focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neural circuit development, synaptic plasticity, and neurological disorders. Key interests include Rho GTPase signaling, adhesion-GPCR biology, and the impact of synaptic dysfunction in conditions like autism, chronic pain, and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Tolias employs rodent models and advanced techniques such as genetic, electrophysiological, and behavioral analyses to study these processes. Her lab also investigates radiation-induced cognitive deficits and gut microbiome effects on brain development.

Education:

• PhD, Harvard Medical School (Cell Biology - Signal Transduction, 1998)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Harvard Medical School (Neuroscience, 2006)
• BS, University of Minnesota (Biochemistry, 1992)

Research Interests: The lab explores how neurons integrate external cues and signaling pathways to regulate synapse formation, axonal/dendritic growth, and cell migration. Current projects include targeting Rho GTPase pathways for CNS injury recovery, studying opioid tolerance mechanisms, and investigating the synaptic basis of radiation-related cognitive decline. Collaborative efforts focus on radiation therapy effects and microbiome-brain interactions.

Labs/Teams: The Kimberley Tolias Lab at Baylor College of Medicine integrates multidisciplinary approaches to address neural circuit plasticity in health and disease. Team members include researchers like Joseph Duman (Associate Professor) and postdocs specializing in imaging and molecular genetics.