Overview
The Scott-Hewitt lab is investigating how interactions between cells and molecules derived from the nervous and immune systems influence critical molecular, cellular, and organismal functions. Our work aims to dissect glial and neuroimmune mechanisms that underlie vulnerability in aging and disease, and to provide mechanistic insights into how intercellular interactions and immunological changes impact cognitive function and contribute to neuropathology.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Assistant Professor of Cell Biology
·
2025 - Present
Cell Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Microglia in systemic neuroimmune communication: functions beyond phagocytosis.
Journal Article Trends Immunol · January 7, 2026 Bidirectional crosstalk between the immune and nervous systems, via 'neuroimmune circuits', regulates homeostatic and inflammatory responses essential for health. Microglia, long-lived brain macrophages, act as key hubs integrating immune signals into coor ... Full text Link to item CiteMicroglial-derived C1q integrates into neuronal ribonucleoprotein complexes and impacts protein homeostasis in the aging brain.
Journal Article Cell · August 8, 2024 Neuroimmune interactions mediate intercellular communication and underlie critical brain functions. Microglia, CNS-resident macrophages, modulate the brain through direct physical interactions and the secretion of molecules. One such secreted factor, the c ... Full text Link to item CiteConvergent mechanisms of microglia-mediated synaptic dysfunction contribute to diverse neuropathological conditions.
Journal Article Ann N Y Acad Sci · July 2023 Changes in synaptic function are an early hallmark of neuropathological conditions that often precede symptom onset, with mounting genetic, transcriptional, and epidemiological evidence implicating microglia in this process. The correlation between infecti ... Full text Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Neurobiology Training Program
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEMentor · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2024 - 2029Investigating RNA-dependent neuroimmune interactions in Alzheimer's Disease
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Alzheimer's Association · 2025 - 2027View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
University of Rochester ·
2015
Ph.D.