Hye Young Lee, Ph.D.

Dr. Lee’s research focus is on studying the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) form a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by deficits in language development/social interactions, and repetitive behavior/restricted interests. ASD likely arises from a complex combination of risk factors. However, it remains possible that certain aspects of the molecular pathophysiology responsible for ASD are recurrent themes that can inform the underlying neurobiological basis of ASD.

The Lee lab focuses on:

1) Identifying the molecular mechanisms responsible for the pathophysiology of autism and related disorders, and using these mechanisms to rescue behavioral dysfunction in mouse models

2) Elucidating specific autistic behaviors including social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors, and identifying the brain region(s) and neuron groups underlying these behavioral deficits in mouse models. To address these questions, Dr. Lee uses molecular and cellular neurobiology tools, in vivo brain imaging, and animal behavioral studies.