Miri vanhoven biography

Whether in laboratory or on the front lines in the community, these SJSU researchers seek healthy outcomes for all.

Following Neural Pathways

In Miri VanHoven’s research lab, she and her students seek to understand how neural circuits are formed and maintained. Neural circuits are part of a relay of neurons that connect and communicate with one another throughout the body. Th ese functional components of the nervous system control perception, such as sight and smell, as well as thought and physical movement.

“We know a great deal about how neural circuits function, but less about their formation and modification,” Dr. VanHoven explains. “Our lab is exploring the molecular processes that govern the steps of formation and growth, as well as how sensory experience shapes and maintains these circuits later in life.”

Dr. VanHoven has three main projects in her laboratory.