Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
Year Arrived at Boise State University: 2026
Email: alexnechiporuk@boisestate.edu
Lab Website: Nechiporuk Lab
Research
Research in the Nechiporuk Lab focuses on how the peripheral sensory nervous system (PNS) develops and forms functional circuits. Using zebrafish as a model, the lab studies how pioneer neurons guide axonal growth and how molecular and physiological differences distinguish pioneer neurons from follower neurons.
Current work uses approaches including single-cell RNA sequencing and transgenic reporters to investigate neuronal lineage, axon targeting, and sensory circuit formation, with the long-term goal of identifying mechanisms relevant to nerve injury and regeneration.
Additional research examines post-transcriptional regulation in sensory neurons and the mechanisms underlying small fiber peripheral neuropathies. The lab is investigating how A-to-I RNA editing and ADAR activity contribute to differences in sensory neuron function, as well as why particular sensory neuron populations are vulnerable to damage from disease or chemotherapy. Using distinct populations of zebrafish Rohon-Beard neurons, this work aims to better understand sensory axon maintenance and the selective vulnerability of neurons affected by peripheral neuropathy.
Publications
A full list of publications can be found on Dr. Nechiporuk’s PubMed webpage.