The Krencik Lab is part of the Center for Neuroregeneration in the Department of Neurosurgery at Houston Methodist Research Institute. The goal of the lab is to accelerate progress in neuroregeneration by understanding the functional relationship between human neurons and astrocytes in normal and dysfunctional states. We employ innovative techniques such as three-dimensional human pluripotent stem cell-based culture, optogenetics, electrophysiology, transplantations and molecular/biochemical approaches in order to answer vital questions in neuroscience. In addition, we work within the Department of Neurosurgery and other institutions at the Texas Medical Center with the goal of translating research discoveries into clinical therapies for restoration of the nervous system after injury and disease.