Ramirez Lab

The Ramirez Lab investigates brain functions in order to develop new ways to treat – and potentially cure – neurological disorders.

We are particularly interested in how neurons form into networks, and how those networks turn on and off to create rhythms that direct the brain – and the body – to perform different functions.

We take a collaborative approach to research, teaming up with experts in different disciplines – from genetics to biology to engineering – to study brain disorders and pursue cures.

Current Research

Unraveling the mechanisms that control breathing

We discovered the neuronal network that controls gasping, which helps animals and people take in air and survive when they’re starved of oxygen. Now we’re pinpointing the networks that control other aspects of breathing. This research is helping us understand sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and erratic breathing in children with Rett syndrome, epilepsy and other disorders.

Working to prevent SIDS

We are collaborating with Dr. Daniel Rubens to study how inner ear problems contribute to SIDS. Rubens was the first researcher to discover that newborns with inner ear damage face higher SIDS risk. Our work could lead to new ways to prevent SIDS.

Studying how media use impacts brain development

We are teaming up with Dr. Dimitri Christakis and his lab to investigate how television and media impact brain development. Our initial research showed that too much media exposure can trigger attention problems in animal models.

Addressing attention and impulse control disorders

Tourette syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder and other conditions are united by a key thread: Affected children can’t control unwanted behaviors. We’re unraveling how the brain controls impulses and attention, and are studying promising therapies that correct these problems in animal models.

Understanding fatal seizures

We are collaborating with Dr. Franck Kalume and his lab to understand the causes of a fatal condition called sudden and unexpected death in epilepsy, and find ways to prevent it.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ramirez Lab’s research and publications, please visit our University of Washington website.