Research
Molecular and cellular and systems mechanisms of learning and memory
Appointments
- Distinguished Professor– Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences and Psychology
- Director–Integrative Center for Learning and Memory
- Tennenbaum Center for the Biology of Creativity
- Brain Research Institute
- Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology GPB Home Area
- Neuroscience GPB Home Area
Biography
The Silva laboratory is studying the biology of learning and memory. They are interested in the molecular, cellular and circuit processes that underlie the allocation, encoding and storage of information. To accomplish this they are using a variety of techniques including sophisticated molecular and genetic approaches, optical physiology, optogenetics, in vivo imaging and behavioral analysis.
Silva and colleagues have also studied the impact of these mechanisms in animal models of cognitive disorders, including intellectual disabilities. Based on these mechanistic studies, they have developed treatments for Neurofibromatosis type I and Tuberous Sclerosis, that are currently being tested in clinical trials.
The Silva laboratory is also developing bioinformatic strategies for tracking and planning experiments (researchmaps.org).
Publications
- Levin, O, Just, I, Klepochova, R, Helsper, S, Vints, W, Silva, AF et al.. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy as a non-invasive tool for assessing brain and muscle adaptation to exercise training in older age: a scoping review into existing research. Exp Gerontol. 2026; :113082. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2026.113082. PubMed PMID:41748042 .
- Sanchis, GJB, Resende, RA, Martins, PFF, de Mello, MT, Ocarino, JM, Mohmara, YA et al.. Shoulder characteristics in para athletes: A comparative analysis of range of motion, posture, and muscle function. Rehabilitacion (Madr). 2026;60 (1):100969. doi: 10.1016/j.rh.2026.100969. PubMed PMID:41747316 .
- Muller, LK, Paiano, D, Augusto Rofino, RD, Contini, S, Esposito, TL, de Costa, ME et al.. Effect of spray-dried porcine plasma and plasma hydrolysate on the health and performance of mycotoxin-challenged piglets at weaning. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2026;58 (2):. doi: 10.1007/s11250-026-04923-z. PubMed PMID:41746519 .
- Zhou, L, Kuehn, HS, Gager, D, Silva, AAG, Perelygina, LM, Hao, L et al.. Fatal Systemic Granulomatous Disease Associated with Vaccine-Derived Rubella Virus in AIOLOS-Associated Immunodeficiency. J Clin Immunol. 2026; :. doi: 10.1007/s10875-026-01990-7. PubMed PMID:41746515 .
- Torteli, MA, Brunetto, ALR, Mello, EP, Deolindo, GL, Nora, L, Dos Santos, TL et al.. Anti-mycotoxin additive mixture in cattle feed contaminated with multiple mycotoxins: impacts on performance and health. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2026;58 (2):. doi: 10.1007/s11250-026-04921-1. PubMed PMID:41746449 .