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Anthony J Filiano

Associate Professor in Neurosurgery
Neurosurgery
DUMC 3350, Durham, NC 27710
701 W. Main St, Chesterfield Bldg Room 5424, Durham, NC 27701

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:

  1. T cells support proper brain function and mice lacking T cells have behavioral deficits, such as decreased learning and memory and social withdrawal. Further, alterations in T cell function have been described in many neurological disorders. Interestingly, T cells are not present in the parenchyma of a healthy brain; yet they patrol the meninges and likely influence neuronal activity via the release of soluble cytokines. We are investigating how cytokines, and other immune-cell derived molecules, can regulate neural circuits and how an imbalance in these molecules might affect the brain in autism spectrum and other related disorders.               
  2. Cord blood contains a rich source of immune-modulating components including, stem cells, immune cells, and soluble factors. Recent work has demonstrated the efficacy of using cord-blood derived components to promote myelination and increase function in neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, autism spectrum disorder, and aging. We are investigating how cord-blood derived cells and products can be used to promote healthy brain function and alleviate behavioral dysfunction in these devastating neurological conditions.

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

In the News


Published November 22, 2024
Study in Mice Links Immune System to ADHD, Neurobehavioral Conditions

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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 Cite

Mesenchymal 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 Cite

Mural cells interact with macrophages in the dura mater to regulate CNS immune surveillance.

Journal Article The Journal of experimental medicine · February 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 Cite
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Education, Training & Certifications


University of Alabama, Birmingham · 2009 D.Phil.

External Links


Filiano Lab Site