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
- Boiago, MM, da Silva, NL, Vilani, A, da Silva, AS, Paiano, D, Davis, R et al.. Hormetic dose-response of pure hydroxytyrosol in laying hens: Optimal dose for egg shelf-life extension and yolk docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acid concentration. Poult Sci. 2026;105 (8):106982. doi: 10.1016/j.psj.2026.106982. PubMed PMID:42102754 .
- Bezerra, LO, Rolniche, LCM, Mendes, AF, Silva, AGD, Feltrin, IR, Morelli, KG et al.. Linoleic acid enhances prostaglandin signaling and IFNT expression in bovine trophoblast cells in vitro. Theriogenology. 2026;262 :117970. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2026.117970. PubMed PMID:42102482 .
- Ahmad, T, Harris, L, Ganesan, V, Toolis, C, Silva, AHD, James, G et al.. Reduction of systemic hypertension following cerebral revascularization surgery for children with moyamoya. J Neurosurg Pediatr. 2026; :1-5. doi: 10.3171/2026.1.PEDS25565. PubMed PMID:42102405 .
- Mattos, VGW, da Silva, AMA, de Azevedo, LW, Alexandrino, EG, Prates-Baldez, D, Dumith, SC et al.. Associations Between Mental Health and Academic Performance in High School Students: A Cross-Sectional Study in Southernmost Brazil. Trends Psychiatry Psychother. 2026; :. doi: 10.47626/2237-6089-2025-1129. PubMed PMID:42101163 .
- Peres, LS, Bilhalva, LC, Mello, CBE, Silva, AG, Santos, AP, Valle, SF et al.. What Is Your Diagnosis? Blood Smear From a Mixed-Breed Dog. Vet Clin Pathol. 2026; :. doi: 10.1111/vcp.70111. PubMed PMID:42099195 .