CDI Faculty

Robert C. Malenka

Robert C. Malenka, M.D., Ph.D.

Dr. Malenka's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms by which neurons communicate and the adaptations in synaptic communication that underlie all forms of normal and pathological behavior. He was trained as both a clinical psychiatrist and cellular neurobiologist and has been at the forefront of helping to apply the knowledge gained from basic neuroscience research to the treatment and prevention of major neuropsychiatric disorders. He uses a combination of electrophysiological, molecular, and cell biological approaches to define the specific molecular events that underlie various forms of synaptic plasticity and applies this knowledge to help elucidate how these events are modified during disease states such as addiction.

Positions

  • Pritzker Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
  • Co-Director, Stanford Institute for Neuro-Innovation and Translational Neurosciences, Stanford University

 

Education

  • M.D., 1983, Stanford University School of Medicine
  • Ph.D., 1983, Stanford University School of Medicine, Neuroscience

 

Relevant Publications

  • Ko J, Fuccillo MV, Malenka RC, Sudhof TC. LRRTM2 functions as a neurexin ligand in promoting excitatory synapse formation. Neuron. 2009;64: 791-798.
  • Xu W, Schluter OM, Steiner P, Czervionke BL, Sabatini B, Malenka RC. Molecular dissociation of the role of PSD-95 in regulating synaptic strength and LTD. Neuron. 2008;57:248-262.
  • Sudhof TC, Malenka RC. Understanding synapses: Past, present, and future. Neuron. 2008;60:469-476.
  • Kreitzer A, Malenka RC. Endocannabinoid-mediated rescue of striatal LTD and motor deficits in Parkinson's disease models. Nature. 2007;445:643-647.
  • Malenka RC, Bear MF. LTP and LTD: An embarrassment of riches. Neuron. 2004;44:5-21.