NMSSPS Member and Faculty Directory

Faculty Advisors

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NMSSPS Member Research Areas

Rafael's Research
While in the MD/PhD program, my research involved the effects of ethanol on the development of neuronal networks in the immature rat hippocampus which has implications in the pathophysiology of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. My career interests are entering a career in pediatric neurology with a strong orientation towards translational research. My current research interests include synaptic plasticity in brain development, fetal alcohol syndrome and epileptic encephalopathies.

Brant's Research
I study mechanisms of GPCR signaling and trafficking using the FPR as a model system.  This allows us to better understand how other proteins interact with the receptor and regulate its activities.  These studies serve as a model for generalized GPCR mechanisms which can be used to develop small molecule inhibitors to disrupt these interactions.  Therapies could theoretically be used in cancer, heart disease and neuronal disorders

Brian's Research
I work on the mechanism of oncoprotein subcellular localization and how the disruption of normal localization contributes to cancer progression.

Lawrence's Research
My research focuses on the SNARE protein SNAP-25 and its role in mediating the evoked release of neurotransmitter by facilitating synaptic vesicle fusion.  In particular, my studies focus on the expression of SNAP-25 by GABAergic neurons, the major inhibitory neuron in the central nervous system, and their reliance on this t-SNARE protein for action potential-dependent neurotransmission.

Nick's Research
My lab works on the high affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) that is present on human mast cells and basophils and binds circulating IgE with nanomolar affinity (Kd=10^-9-10^-10 M).  Cross linking of this receptor-bound IgE by multivalent allergen initiates a complex intracellular signaling cascade resulting in the release of key mediators of allergic inflammation.  To better understand the subtleties of FcεRI signaling, imaging modalities capable of nanometer scale spatial and millisecond temporal resolution are required.  To this end, my research focuses on both the development and application of tools and techniques for live cell fluorescence microscopy, such as quantum dot (QD) based probes, single particle tracking (SPT), fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) to study the influence of molecular dynamics (diffusion, dimerization, aggregation) on signaling outcomes (cytoskeletal rearrangement, degranulation).

Michael B's Research
I am currently studying the gene expression patterns of the GABAergic markers GAD-65, GAD-67, and GAT-1, and NMDA receptor subunits in the cerebellum of post-mortem schizophrenic patients using quantitative real-time PCR and in situ hybridization methods supplemented by western blot analysis and immunocytochemical techniques.  In addition to human tissue analysis, we are also validating similar gene expression changes in a rat model chronically treated with low levels of PCP using the same methods.  The end result will hopefully lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and to improved pharmaceutical treatments and improved patient management.

Robert's Research
I am currently interested in basic mechanisms that contribute to neuronal cell death. A common triggering event in neurodegeneration is thought to be the excessive release of the excitatory transmitter glutamate, and subsequent massive Ca2+ influx.  Specifically, I am looking into the mechanisms and consequences of the phenomenon of spreading depression.  Additionally, I am studying the role of sodium-calcium exchangers in Ca2+ influx that may lead to spreading degeneration as well as spreading depression.

Christina's Research
I am currently conducting research into genomic instability and the field effect relative to prostate cancer, the second most common solid tumor in men. It is likely that these areas will provide new diagnostic and prognostic tools that can be used to refine treatment of the individual, reducing the risk of treatment associated morbidity and mortality. Methods of assessment currently include methylation patterns of genes, microsatellite instability, and expression profiles comparing tumor, nearby histologically normal, and undiseased prostate tissue.

Michael P's Research
My lab works on the developmental sequella from Ethanol exposure in the context of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.  Current investigations include: the epigenetic mechanisms role in this disorder as well as the characterization of trophic factors in the physiologic and morphologic changes observed.

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