In addition to various types of neurons, the glia is another important cell type that also contains many different types regarding morphology and function. These glia tightly communicate with the neurons in order to control neurons for their activity and function. In this regulation, glia can take up neurotransmitters and extracellular metabolites and ions and release neurotransmitters, metabolites, metabolic or signaling lipids, and neurotrophic factors. As a result, dysregulated neuron-glia communication has emerged as one of major causes for human neurological diseases. In this aspect, research of my group is focused on following topics:

1. The neural circuit mechanism of astrocyte-dependent glutamate excitotoxicity in neurodegenerative diseases.
2. The role of endolysosomal control of sphingolipid metabolism in neuron-glia communication and neurodevelopmental diseases.
3. The role of endoplasmic reticulum quality control in neuron-glia communication and neurodegenerative diseases.