Gayla Orr
Expertise
Dr. Galya Orr has initiated and is currently leading an effort that combines the development of imaging techniques with the investigation of the molecular processes of membrane receptors. Galya's effort has been focusing on time-lapse single-molecule fluorescence imaging and high sensitivity FRET analyses to study the molecular interaction dynamics of membrane receptors, and their intimate relationships with their membrane environment. Using the above techniques, nanoscale insights have been gained into the behavior and function of the ErbB receptors and associated proteins. Building on here experience in electrophysiology, Galya has been working toward simultaneous acquisition of single-molecule fluorescence and FRET imaging with single-channel current recording, for investigating structure-function relationships of ion channels. Galya has been also leading an effort that aims at high throughput identification of molecular interactions using imaging techniques. Current research interests include:
- Study the spatial and temporal patterns of the EGF receptor interactions with its ligands and dimerization partners to better understand their function in the transformation of information across the cell membrane. Identify the role of membrane microdomains in receptor function.
- Investigate the molecular interactions of the ErbB receptors, and the NMDA receptor that govern the formation and specificity of the glutamatergic synapse.
- Previous work focused on the electrophysiology of learning and memory in the hippocampus of living animals. Identified electrophysiological correlates of the decline in cognitive functions during aging, and the involvement of the theta rhythm in synaptic plasticity.
Education
- Ph.D., Neuroscience, Division of Neural Systems Memory and Aging, University of Arizona, 2002
- B.S., Cellular and Molecular Biology, The Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, 1984