Overview
Immune dysfunction has been described in most neurological disorders. Preclinical strategies targeting these disorders have primarily concentrated on directly targeting synaptic function; however, most of these approaches have failed. Our lab is interested in understanding the complex interactions between the immune system and nervous system with the intent to uncover novel therapeutic targets to combat diseases such as autism spectrum disorder.
Projects in the Lab:
- T cells support proper brain …
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Associate Professor in Neurosurgery
·
2025 - Present
Neurosurgery,
Neurosurgery
Assistant Research Professor in Integrative Immunobiology
·
2017 - Present
Integrative Immunobiology,
Basic Science Departments
Associate Professor in Pathology
·
2025 - Present
Pathology,
Clinical Science Departments
Recent Publications
Prolonged STAT1 signaling in neurons causes hyperactive behavior.
Journal Article Brain Behav Immun · February 2025 The interferon (IFN)-induced STAT1 signaling pathway is a canonical immune pathway that has also been implicated in regulating neuronal activity. The pathway is enriched in brains of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia (SZ). O ... Full text Link to item CiteMural cells interact with macrophages in the dura mater to regulate CNS immune surveillance.
Journal Article J Exp Med · February 5, 2024 The central nervous system (CNS) tightly regulates access of circulating immune cells. Immunosurveillance is therefore managed in the meninges at the borders of the CNS. Here, we demonstrated that mural cells, which include pericytes and smooth muscle cell ... Full text Link to item CiteMesenchymal stromal cells suppress microglial activation and tumor necrosis factor production.
Journal Article Cytotherapy · February 2024 BACKGROUND AIMS: White matter diseases are commonly associated with microglial activation and neuroinflammation. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have immunomodulatory properties and thus have the potential to be developed as cell therapy for white matter ... Full text Link to item CiteEducation, Training & Certifications
University of Alabama, Birmingham ·
2009
D.Phil.