Matthew W. Pitts, Ph.D.
Assistant Researcher
Area of Expertise ~ Selenoproteins in nervous system development and function
Email: mwpitts@hawaii.edu
Phone: +1 808-692-1516
Biography: I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychobiology from UCLA (2000) and my PhD in Cell & Molecular Biology from the University of Hawaiʻi (2009). My PhD studies were conducted in the laboratory of Lorey Takahashi investigating the role of central amygdala corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in contextual fear memory.
Research: My research investigates the neuroprotective role of selenoproteins, with an emphasis on their relationship to oxidative stress and maintenance of excitatory/inhibitory balance. The overarching goals of this research are three-fold: 1) to define the developmental epochs, brain regions, and neuronal cell types most vulnerable to selenium (Se) deficiency, 2) to illuminate the cell-type specific relationship between Se-dependent antioxidant activity and maturation of GABAergic inhibitory circuits, and 3) to facilitate development of targeted nutritional intervention strategies to mitigate neuropsychiatric disease. To accomplish these goals, my research program employs an interdisciplinary approach, utilizing mouse genetic models, dietary/pharmacological interventions, primary cell culture, immunohistology, and quantitative imaging.
Teaching: In addition to mentoring students in the laboratory, I provide annual guest lectures on Learning & Memory for CMB 622, and have served as the course instructor for PSYCH 230 (Introduction to Psychobiology) and ZOO 442 (Introduction to Neuroscience)