The research in our laboratory aims to better understand the neuroinflammatory processes following acute excitotoxic insults such as status epilepticus and cerebral ischemia. More recently, we have begun to explore the neuron-glia interactions in malignant gliomas, the most devastating brain tumors that constitute a major cause for epilepsy, particularly in the elderly. We attempt to unlock the molecular mechanisms whereby normal brains are transformed to generate spontaneous seizures during the epileptogenesis of various etiologies. We are also interested in developing new pharmacotherapies for these inflammation-associated conditions in close collaboration with medicinal chemistry labs. To achieve these goals, we use a variety of technologies and experimental systems, such as high-throughput screening, chemical genetics, TR-FRET, RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9, microdialysis, time-locked video EEG, unbiased stereology, behavioral tests, etc. In so doing, we help to bridge the gap between basic biomedical research discoveries and their translation to clinical innovations.