X.Z. Shawn Xu

GABA-independent activation of GABAB receptor by mechanical forces

This paper shows that GABAB receptors can be activated by mechanical forces without GABA, through integrin-GB1 interactions leading to receptor activation and astrocyte remodeling.

Temporally controlled nervous system-to-gut signaling bidirectionally regulates longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans

This study identifies two neuroendocrine circuits in C. elegans where nervous system signaling to the gut bidirectionally regulates lifespan depending on life stage.

A C. elegans neuron both promotes and suppresses motor behavior to fine tune motor output

The paper shows that the C. elegans neuron RIM both promotes and suppresses locomotion behavior to fine tune motor output through dual neurotransmission mechanisms.

A Spinal Circuit That Transmits Innocuous Cool Sensations

The paper identifies a spinal circuit that transmits innocuous cool sensations by characterizing a specific population of interneurons.

BBSome regulation of LITE-1 receptor in a cilium-independent manner in C. elegans

The paper identifies a cilium-independent function of BBSome in regulating the stability of the non-ciliary LITE-1 receptor in C. elegans ASH neurons.

A conserved nuclear export complex coordinates transcripts for dopaminergic synaptogenesis and neuronal survival

This study identifies the THO nuclear export complex as critical for synaptic transcript export, synapse development, and neuronal survival in dopaminergic neurons across species.