Multiple Sclerosis
We study fundamental aspects of lysophospholipid receptor signaling and its roles in diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is one of the most studied of the lysophospholipids. Four S1P modulators (fingolimod, siponimod, ozanimod, and ponesimod) have been approved as medicines for different forms of MS, with more in clinical development. Our lab investigates the complex ligand-receptor interactions that lead to downstream signaling effects and disease modification.
See our publications on Multiple SclerosisAlzheimer’s Disease and Other Related Dementias
Understanding and treating Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and its related dementias (ADRDs) is a major unmet medical need. Somatic gene recombination of amyloid precursor protein and other genes has the potential to bridge multiple areas of AD research, potentially linking ADRDs towards explaining disease comorbidities, and providing a novel mechanism for AD therapeutics.
See our publications on Alzheimer’s diseaseHydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a disease where excess cerebral spinal fluid puts pressure on the brain, altering brain morphology resulting in cognitive, behavioral, and motor impairments. Post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) is a complication of intraventricular bleeding and it most commonly occurs in neonates and premature infants. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is released during the hemorrhagic event and acutely disrupts the cells that generate CSF flow, leading to cell death, phagocytosis, and ventricular surface denudation. We have developed multiple models of LPA-induced PHH to examine the effects of LPA on brain morphology, behavior, cellular mechanisms, and survival.
See our publications on hydrocephalusOther Brain Disorders
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) signaling have been implicated in myriad disorders. The lab has also studied neurological disorders such as neuropathic pain and schizophrenia, as well as reproduction disorders.
See our publications on neuropathic pain