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Tasuku Akiyama, PhD

Tasuku Akiyama, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Dermatology

Lab | Publications | Email
Office Location: Rosenstiel Medical Science Building #2063
Lab Location: Rosenstiel Medical Science Building #2069
Phone305-243-6552

Graduate ProgramsHuman Genetics & GenomicsNeuroscience

Keywords: Pain, Itch, Anxiety, Brain circuit, Neuro-immune interaction 

Research Focus: Our research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of itch and pain. Our laboratory develops and uses multiple mouse models of chronic itch, including atopic dermatitis, psoriatic itch, and post-burn itch.  Additionally, our team employs various in vitro and in vivo research approaches, including genetic tools, optogenetics, chemogenetics, calcium imaging, neuronal tracing, molecular expression profiling, electrophysiology, and multiple behavioral assessments in mice. 
Hassan Al Ali

Hassan Al Ali, Ph.D., M.S.M.

Assistant Research Professor, Neurological Surgery

Lab | Clinical Profile | Publications | Email
Location: Batchelor 6th Floor, Room 627
Phone: 305-243-8491

Graduate Program(s): Neuroscience

Keywords:  Neuroinflammation, Bioassays, Therapeutic Development, Drug Discovery

Research Summary: I focus on therapeutic development in CNS repair (e.g. axon regeneration and neuroinflammation). Core activities  include the development of bioassays and analytical technologies for illuminating disease biology and enabling early-stage drug discovery. This includes discovering novel signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms, identifying druggable targets, and developing promising therapeutic candidates (from small-molecules to biologics).

Ayham Alkhacroum MD

Ayham Alkhachroum, M.D.

Assistant Professor, Neurology 

Clinical Profile | Publications | Email
Location: 
Soffer Clinical Research Center, Suite 1353
Phone: 305-243-6175

Graduate Program(s): Neuroscience

Affiliations: Jackson Memorial Hospital

Research Keywords: Acute Brain Injury, Neurophysiology, Electroencephalogram, Neurocritical Care

Research Focus: My clinical expertise and research interest have focused on understanding the heterogeneity of outcomes in patients with acute brain injury and on prediction of recovery after coma using electrophysiologic biomarkers.

Noam Alperin, Ph.D.

Noam Alperin, Ph.D.

Professor, Radiology

Lab | Publications | Email
Location: 
Professional Arts Center, Room 713
Phone: 305-243-8098

Graduate Program(s): Neuroscience

Keywords: Alzheimer’s Disease, Sleep, aging, Quantitative Imaging, MRI, Brain morphology and function, craniospinal hydrodynamics

Research Focus: The basic and translational research focus of our lab, (Physiologic imaging and modeling) is the study of the CSF system dynamics and its link to cerebral blood flow and respiration using dynamic MRI. Current projects include 1) Role of CSF dynamics in clearance of brain toxins during sleep, 2) the impact of space environment (microgravity) on the CSF dynamics, and 3) CSF related neurological disorders (Chiari malformation, hydrocephalous, and idiopathic intracranial hypertension.)

Coleen Atkins, PhD

Coleen Atkins, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Neurological Surgery
Graduate Program Director, Neuroscience

Email: 
CAtkins@med.miami.edu

Research Focus: My research focuses on cognitive dysfunction after traumatic brain injury.

Keywords: Learning and memory, synaptic plasticity, traumatic brain injury, stress, Alzheimer’s disease

Ellen Barrett, PhD

Ellen Barrett, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology and Biophysics

Email: 
ebarrett2@med.miami.edu

Our laboratory studies ways to preserve neuromuscular structure and function in the SOD1G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We infuse candidate protective agents into one hind limb and compare neuromuscular structure and function in infused vs. non-infused limbs.

John Barett, Ph.D.

John Barrett, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology and Biophysics

Email: 
jbarrett@med.miami.edu

Our laboratory studies how mammalian central neurons respond to stress. One project seeks mechanisms underlying the complementary neuroprotective effects of neurotrophins (e.g., NGF, BDNF) and bone morphogenetic proteins (e.g., BMP7) during hypoglycemic stress in septal cholinergic neurons. Another project studies neuronal responses to hyperthermia, exacerbating damage by hypoglycemia and ischemia.

Antonio Barrientos, Ph.D.

Antonio Barrientos, Ph.D.

Professor, Neurology

Lab | Publications | Email
Phone: (305) 243-8683
Location: RMSB Room #2067

AffiliationsNeurology

Graduate ProgramsBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyMolecular & Cellular PharmacologyNeuroscience 

Research Summary: The main research interest of our lab is on the basic mechanisms that govern the biogenesis of mitochondrial protein complexes in health, disease, and aging. We are most specifically interested in the assembly and function of the mitochondrial translation machinery and of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation system components, involved in biological energy transduction.

Rene Barro-Soria, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Medicine
Email: rbarro@med.miami.edu

Research Focus: My research focuses on ion channel biophysics.

Keywords: Voltage-gated K+ channels, Fluorescence voltage clamp, patch clamp, iPSC-derived neurons, epilepsy, ASD

Michael Benatar MD, PhD

Michael Benatar, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, Neurology

Email: mbenatar@med.miami.edu

Dr. Benatar directs an active clinical and translational research program focused on biomarker and therapy development for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and myasthenia gravis. Areas of particular interest include deep phenotyping, genotype-phenotype associations, neuroimaging, neurophysiology, and clinical trials.

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Eleonore Beurel, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Email: ebeurel@med.miami.edu

We study neuroinflammation in depressive disorders, focusing specifically on glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3). Findings suggest the pro-inflammatory action of GSK3 may contribute to its promotion of mood disorders, providing a potential therapeutic target.

Bhattacharya Sanjoy

Sanjoy Bhattacharya, Ph.D.

Professor, Ophthalmology
Graduate Program Director, Vision Science & Investigative Ophthalmology

Lab | Publications | Email

Graduate ProgramBiochemistry & Molecular BiologyMolecular and Cellular PharmacologyNeuroscienceVision Science & Investigative Ophthalmology

AffiliationBascom Palmer Eye Institute

Research Summary: The Bhattacharya laboratory uses a multidisciplinary approach which includes mass spectrometric proteomic and lipidomic approaches to study neurodegenerative diseases. The major focus is a group of progressive irreversible blinding diseases collectively called glaucoma and also a group of demyelinating diseases termed multiple sclerosis that frequently is associated with visual impairment preceding neurological deficits. The lab also has an interest in basic visual processes.

Laura Bianchi, PhD

Laura Bianchi, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology, and Biophysics

Email: l.bianchi@med.miami.edu

Research focus: My research focuses on ion channels and transporters in glia/neuron functional interaction.
 
Keywords: Glia, C. elegans, ion channels, transporters, sensory perception
John L. Bixby, Ph.D.

John Bixby, Ph.D.

Professor, Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology
Director of University of Miami Neuroscience Center

Lab | Publications | Email
Phone305-243-4874
Location: Lois Pope LIFE Center 4-17

AffiliationsMiami Project to Cure Paralysis, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer CenterHussman Institute for Human Genomics

Graduate ProgramsMolecular & Cellular Pharmacology, Neuroscience

Research Summary: Our main research interest is in axonal regeneration after nervous system injury. For the past 18 years, our lab has focused on mechanisms underlying the restoration of function after injury to the central nervous system (CNS), and on data standards and ontologies in regeneration research. Recent work has emphasized, in addition to high content screening and bioinformatics/machine learning, in vivo approaches to regeneration mechanisms involving both optic nerve injury models and three different rodent models of spinal cord injury. Our lab has also worked on RNA-Seq analysis and various bioinformatic approaches to screening and regeneration-related data.

Helen Bramlett, PhD

Helen Bramlett, Ph.D.

Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: hbramlett@med.miami.edu

The focus of my laboratory is investigating pathomechanisms of CNS injury and therapeutic interventions. Current research is elucidating mechanisms of progressive brain injury and post-traumatic epilepsy. Additionally, we’re assessing combination approaches, including therapeutic hypothermia and novel compounds, in clinically relevant models of CNS injury.

Roberta Bramilla, Ph.D.

Roberta Brambilla, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: rbrambilla@med.miami.edu

Research focus: Neuroinflammation in neurological disease

Keywords: Glia, neuro-immune interaction, neuroinflammation, cytokines, demyelinating disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury

The main focus of my research is understanding the role of neuroinflammation in the pathophysiology of neurological disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, stroke), with a specific interest in the contribution of glial cells. We investigate astrocytes and microglia for their involvement in the neuroinflammatory response to injury and oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte precursor cells for their role in axon myelination, metabolic support of neurons, and myelin repair. We are also interested in the interaction between the immune system and the central nervous system (CNS), and how innate and adaptive immune responses driven by macrophages, T cells, and B cells infiltrating into the CNS during disease influence neurological outcomes. 

Jennifer Britton

Jennifer Britton, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Psychology

Lab | Publications | Email
Lab Location: Neuroscience Building/Cox Annex 118
Lab Phone: 305-284-2364
Office Location: Flipse 354
Office Phone305-284-4943

Graduate ProgramsNeuroscience

Keywords: affective neuroscience; developmental neuroscience; anxiety; executive function; learning

Research Focus: We aim to understand the behavioral and neural correlates of emotional development and anxiety across the lifespan and apply this knowledge to the development of novel treatments. Current studies focus on the role of affective flexibility, executive function, threat conditioning, and attention biases in the development and maintenance of anxiety.

Diego Alejandro Caicedo-Viekant, PhD

D. Alejandro Caicedo-Viekant, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Medicine

Email: acaicedo@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on cellular mechanisms that lead to the highly orchestrated insulin and glucagon secretion by human pancreatic islets.

Keywords: Serotonin, calcium, synapse, GPCR, neuron, muscle, neuroendocrine, neurotransmitter

Nirupa Chaudhari, PhD

Nirupa Chaudhari, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology & Biophysics

Email: nchaudhari@miami.edu

We study how sensory cells function and regenerate by profiling gene expression in different cell types (RNAseq, single-cell RT-PCR, confocal microscopy) to understand how taste buds function, turnover, and differentiate. We also image the functional responses of taste bud cells and sensory neurons under normal and metabolically altered conditions.

Kevin Collins, PhD

Kevin Collins, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biology

Email: kmc117@miami.edu

Research focus: My research is exploring modulation of neural circuits and animal behavior

Keywords: Serotonin, calcium, synapse, GPCR, neuron, muscle, neuroendocrine, neurotransmitter
Gerhard Dahl, MD

Gerhard Dahl, M.D.

Professor, Physiology and Biophysics

Email: gdahl@med.miami.edu

Our lab concentrates on intercellular communications through gap junctions and calcium waves. Research is geared toward two goals: identifying functional domains within the molecular subunits of gap junctions (connexins) and determining the physiological function of specific gap junction proteins in tissues.
Julia Dallman PhD

Julia Dallman, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biology
Email: j.dallman@miami.edu

Research focus: My lab generates zebrafish models of inherited human neurological disorders to understand how mutations impact neural circuit development and behavior. By comparing multiple forms of a single disorder, we elucidate shared mechanisms by which different mutations affect behavior. Our long-term goal is to leverage these models to inform treatment strategies for individuals with inherited disorders of the nervous system.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing, gastrointestinal distress, brainstem, enteroendocrine cells, microbiome, innate immunity
Kunjan Dave, PhD

Kunjan Dave, Ph.D., FAHA

Research Assistant Professor, Neurology
Affiliated Member, Neuroscience

Email: kdave@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on various aspects of cerebral ischemia and hemorrhagic stroke.

Keywords: Stroke, cerebral ischemia, hemorrhagic stroke, diabetes, hypoglycemia, therapy
Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari, Ph.D., FAcadTM

Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari, Ph.D., FAcadTM

Research Assistant Professor, Neurological Surgery
Email: jderivero@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on understanding inflammatory events associated with inflammasome activation in CNS injury (spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke) and diseases (Alzheimer’s disease). The inflammasome is a multiprotein complex involved in the activation of caspase-1 and the processing of the cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 that contribute to deleterious inflammation in various diseases. 
Dalton Dietrich, PhD

W. Dalton Dietrich, Ph.D.

Professor, Neurosurgery, Neurology, Cell Biology

Email: ddietrich@med.miami.edu

I investigate the pathobiology and treatment of CNS injury and repair in both the acute and chronic settings. We use animal models of cerebral ischemia and brain and spinal cord trauma to investigate tissue injury mechanisms and test novel therapeutic interventions, including temperature modification, pharmacological treatment, and cell therapies. The ultimate goal is to develop clinically relevant therapies that can be translated to people living with brain and spinal cord injury.

Courtney Dumont, Ph.D.

Courtney Dumont, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering
Email: cdumont@miami.edu

The Neural Stem & Tissue Engineered Microenvironments (NeuSTEM) lab investigates extrinsic barriers to nerve regeneration, such as inflammation and hypoxia, that synergize with intrinsic barriers to prevent repair. This work informs the development of therapeutic interventions (stem cells, biomaterials, drug delivery) to create a more conducive microenvironment that supports repair mechanisms.

Andrew Dykstra, Ph.D.

Andrew Dykstra, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering
Email: adykstra@miami.edu

My research focuses on the neural basis of auditory perception and cognition.

Keywords: Aging, audition, computational cognitive neuroscience, perception, scene analysis

Lynne Fieber, PhD

Lynne Fieber, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Marine Biology

Email: l.fieber@miami.edu

Research focus: My research is exploring the neurophysiology of aging.

Keywords: Marine animal model, glutamatergic signaling, Alzheimer’s disease

Patrick Ganzer PhD

Patrick Ganzer, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering

Email: Pxg487@miami.edu

Research focus: Our laboratory is focused on creating neurotechnology that can eventually help individuals with disease and dysfunction. Techniques used: 1) advanced machine learning, 2) neural interfacing (e.g., for neural stimulation or electrophysiology), 3) preclinical animal behavior, and 4) human subjects testing. 

James Guest, MD, PhD

James Guest, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, Clinical Neurological Surgery

Email: jguest@med.miami.edu

Our translational spinal cord injury lab research spans large animal preclinical experimentation into early-phase human clinical trials of cell therapy and neuroprotection. Our members have simultaneously participated in preclinical experiments and assessment of human clinical trial subjects when suitably qualified.

Abigail Hackam, PhD

Abigail Hackam, Ph.D.

Professor, Ophthalmology

Lab | Publications | Email
Lab Location: McKnight #413
Office Location: McKnight #407
Phone: 305-243-5723

AffiliationsBascom Palmer Eye Institute

Graduate Programs: Human Genetics & Genomics, Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology, Neuroscience, Vision Science & Investigative Ophthalmology

Keywords: retina, neuroscience, neuroinflammation, Wnt signaling, glial biology

Research Summary: The research in Dr. Hackam’s laboratory encompasses the fields of genetics and ophthalmology. Our focus is on understanding signaling mechanisms that contribute to retinal degeneration and tumorigenesis, through the use of cellular, molecular and bioinformatics analyses.
 
Shuanglin Hao, PhD

Shuanglin Hao, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, Anesthesiology

Email: shao@med.miami.edu

We investigate the neurochemical mechanisms of peripheral nervous system injury and neuropathic pain associated with HIV/AIDS. We also study opioid drug abuse and its interaction with HIV infection and HIV/AIDS neuropathy. We use viral vector-mediated gene therapy for the treatment of chronic pain and drug abuse.

Aaron Heller, PhD

Aaron Heller, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Psychology

Email: aheller@miami.edu

Using brain imaging (e.g., fMRI) and real-world cell phone-based experience sampling methods, I study the neural dynamics of emotion in depressed and healthy individuals.

Michael E. Hoffer, MD

Michael E. Hoffer, M.D.

Professor, Otolaryngology and Neurological Surgery

Email: michael.hoffer@miami.edu

Dr. Hoffer's primary area of emphasis includes studying the inner ear and brain damage from traumatic insults. His lab performs rapidly translatable studies that involve basic and clinical science.

George Inana, MD, PhD

George Inana, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, Ophthalmology

Email: ginana@med.miami.edu

Our lab investigates the mechanisms of retinal diseases that lead to blindness through the identification of causative genes, construction and use of animal models to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms by which specific gene mutations lead to retinal degeneration, and therapeutic manipulation of the animal models for the ultimate goal of developing effective therapies.

Sari Izenwasser, PhD

Sari Izenwasser, Ph.D.

Professor, Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Email: sizenwasser@med.miami.edu

My research studies the neurochemical and behavioral consequences of drugs of abuse. We study the effects of stimulants (including cocaine, methamphetamine, and nicotine), marijuana, and opiates in adolescents. In addition, we focus on developing novel treatments for cocaine abuse.

Girardin Jean-Louis

Girardin Jean-Louis, Ph.D.

Professor, Psychiatry and Neurology

Lab | Email

Keywords: cardiovascular disease, brain injury

Research Focus: Dr. Jean-Louis’ overarching research goal is to address multi-level barriers hindering adoption of healthful practices in minoritized communities. His research focuses on the application of agile digital health models to enhance treatment adherence to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and brain injury. Dr. Jean-Louis’ research also addresses the psychosocial and environmental determinants of health behavior preventing access to adequate care in diverse communities, disproportionately burdened by adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular outcomes. Currently, he is investigating mechanisms of sleep deficiency and its associations with biomarkers of cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and brain injury, delineating the contribution of structural racism, epigenetics, and ancestry.

Richard Jope, PhD

Richard Jope, Ph.D.

Professor, Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Email: rjope@med.miami.edu

We study the neurochemical basis of behavior –  especially how altered gene expression and neuronal plasticity affect mood and cognition. We focus on how the immune system interacts with the brain in depression, manic-depression (bipolar disorder), and neurodegenerative diseases (such as multiple sclerosis) to understand mechanisms that regulate signal transduction activity systems and how these are dysfunctional in psychiatric diseases. 

Robert Keane, PhD

Robert Keane, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology & Biophysics

Email: rkeane@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on the activation of innate immune signaling after CNS injury. We discovered that CNS cells harbor inflammasomes that contribute to inflammatory pathomechanisms. Our current work seeks to understand the physiological functions of these signaling pathways that may provide promising and unique therapeutic strategies to treat CNS injury and disease.

Nadine A. Kerr, Ph.D.

Nadine A. Kerr, Ph.D.

Research Assistant Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery

Graduate Program Affiliations- Neuroscience

Keywords: Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Multiorgan dysfunction, inflammation, extracellular vesicles

Research Focus: My research focuses on the pathomechanisms of the systemic inflammatory responses and multiorgan dysfunction after traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, and Alzheimer's Disease. Currently, I am investing the role of Extracellular Vesicle-mediated cell death in systemic organ dysfunction after TBI and stroke in Alzheimer's Disease. In particular, my interest lies in examining dysfunction of the brain-lung axis and the gut-brain axis.

Hans Peter Larsson, PhD

Hans Peter Larsson, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology & Biophysics

Email: plarsson@med.miami.edu

My lab aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that open and close voltage-gated ion channels. Since mutations exist in such channels in patients with epilepsy, irregular heart rhythms, and periodic paralyzes, understanding the structure and function of channels could lead to treatments for several disorders. We also study how glutamate transporters function.

Jae Lee PhD

Jae Lee, Ph.D.

Professor, Neurological Surgery

Lab | Clinical ProfilePublications | Email
Office Location: LPLC #419
Lab Location: LPLC #3-01
Office Phone305-243-2646
Lab Phone: 305-243-2599

Graduate Programs: Molecular & Cellular PharmacologyNeuroscience

Keywords: Glial and Fibrotic Scar Formation in the CNS; Axon Regeneration

Research Focus: After traumatic injury to the central nervous system (CNS), such as spinal cord injury or traumatic brain injury, non-CNS cells such as hematogenous immune cells and fibroblasts enter the CNS parenchyma and cause tissue damage.  In response, glial cells attempt to form a protective barrier but during this process, these reactive glial cells (often called the glial scar) create an environment that is not conducive to tissue repair.  The primary goal of our laboratory is to investigate how these CNS and non-CNS cells interact to form the scar in hopes that a better understanding of this complex process will help promote cellular repair and axon regeneration.

Richard Lee, MD, PhD

Richard Lee, M.D., Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Ophthalmology, Cell Biology

Email: rlee@med.miami.edu

My lab focuses on the molecular, cellular, proteomic, and neurophysiologic basis of glaucoma in experimental and human models. Using leading-edge experimental techniques and technologies, my lab identifies pathways important for the development of glaucoma and retinal nerve cell death. These molecular pathways represent important new targets for developing neuroprotective strategies to prevent glaucoma-associated blindness.

Allan Levi, MD, PhD, FACS

Allan Levi, M.D., Ph.D., FACS

Chair and Professor, Neurological Surgery, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation

Email: ALevi@med.miami.edu

Research Interests: My research focuses on peripheral nerve regeneration.

Keywords: Schwann cells, critical gap, transplantation, spinal cord injury

Daniel Liebl, PhD

Daniel Liebl, Ph.D.

Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: dliebl@med.miami.edu

We're interested in protecting and regenerating the CNS after traumatic injury. We examine novel mechanisms of cell death, adult neurogenesis, angiogenesis, and synaptogenesis using cellular and molecular strategies; cutting-edge imaging techniques; electrophysiological, anatomical, and behavioral methodologies; and transgenic mouse models.

Zhongmin Lu, PhD

Zhongmin Lu, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Biology

Email: zlu@miami.edu

My lab studies sensory neurobiology with a primary focus on comparative studies of the auditory systems of vertebrates. We study the fish auditory system from the ear to the CNS at cellular, systems, and organismal levels using anatomical, neurophysiological, and behavioral approaches. Our directions include: peripheral mechanisms of directional hearing in fish, neural mechanisms of sound localization by fish, Florida red tides and hearing, and the roles of fish otolithic organs in hearing.

Karl Magleby, PhD

Karl Magleby, Ph.D.

Professor and Chair, Physiology and Biophysics

Email: kmagleby@med.miami.edu

Our research focuses on characterizing the types of ion channels in different cells and determining the mechanisms by which the different channels open and close their pores (gating) and select for the passage of specific ions (selectivity). We are also exploring mechanisms underlying the short-term changes in transmitter release (short-term synaptic plasticity).

Philip McCabe, PhD

Philip McCabe, Ph.D.

Professor, Psychology

Email: pmccabe@miami.edu

Our research focuses on neural mechanisms underlying emotional behavior and the role of social/emotional behavior in the progression of cardiovascular disease.

Eric A. Mellon, M.D., Ph.D.

Eric Albert Mellon, M.D., Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Radiation Oncology

Email: eric.mellon@med.miami.edu
Phone: 305-243-9108

Keywords: brain cancer, MRI, radiation therapy, biomarkers, adaptive therapies

Research Summary: Dr. Eric Mellon is an M.D. radiation oncologist and Ph.D. MRI physicist who both treats and researches brain and spine cancers. The Mellon laboratory uses advanced MRI techniques to uncover hidden cancer spread and for early response prediction and therapy adaptation.

Lab website: https://umiamihealth.org/sylvester-comprehensive-cancer-center/research/labs/mellon-lab

Hideki Mochizuki, Ph.D.

Hideki Mochizuki, Ph.D.

Research Assistant Professor, Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery

Email: 
hxm414@miami.edu

We investigate the human brain mechanisms of itch and pain, and brain pathology behind chronic itch and skin diseases using a variety of MRI techniques including BOLD fMRI, ASL fMRI, resting state fMRI, machine learning, and structural MRI.

Carlos Moraes, PhD

Carlos Moraes, Ph.D.

Lichtenstein Professor, Neurology
Lichtenstein Professor, Cell Biology and Anatomy

Lab | Email

Our lab studies the molecular basis of mitochondrial defects in metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases and in normal aging, using genetically modified mouse models. Three major funded projects are 1) Development of genetic therapies for mitochondrial diseases. 2) Development of animal models to study the pathogenesis of mitochondrial disorders. 3) Compensating for a defect in oxidative phosphorylation by increasing mitochondrial biogenesis.

Kenneth Muller, PhD

Kenneth Muller, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology & Biophysics

Email: kmuller@med.miami.edu

How do nerve cells form precise synaptic connections, and how do those connections normally function? We study developing circuitry in the retina and brainstem, the repair and functioning of synaptic connections, and control microglia moving to nerve injuries.

Amanda Myers, PhD

Amanda Myers, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

Email: amyers@med.miami.edu

Our research centers on the function of non-coding DNA variation within the human cortex with a specific focus on the pathogenomic processes underlying late-onset of Alzheimer's.

Brian Noga, PhD

Brian Noga, Ph.D.

Research Associate Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: bnoga@med.miami.edu

Our long-term goal is to develop new therapeutic strategies for enhancing spinal function based on the delivery of neurotransmitters, similarly acting drugs, or transplantation of cells secreting these substances. We investigate the spinal release of monoamines during walking and the receptors between monoaminergic fibers and locomotor-activated neurons in the spinal cord. We also examine the therapeutic potential of deep brain stimulation in models of spinal injury.

Michael Norenberg, MD

Michael Norenberg, M.D.

Professor, Pathology

Email: mnorenbe@med.miami.edu

We study the normal function and properties of glia, neurotransmitter transport in glia, the role of glia and steroids in neuroprotection, mechanisms and significance of reactive gliosis, the role of glia in various neurological conditions (trauma, aging/Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, brain edema, liver failure), and the role of oxidative stress and the mitochondrial permeability transition in CNS trauma and liver failure.

Ozcan Ozdamar, PhD

Ozcan Ozdamar, Ph.D.

Professor, Biomedical Engineering

Email: oozdamar@miami.edu

My research explores the auditory and visual neural processes using physiological tools.

Damien Pearse, PhD

Damien Pearse, Ph.D.

Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: dpearse@med.miami.edu

My laboratory focuses on key aspects of spinal cord injury repair. We’re exploring preventing progressive tissue damage following the initial trauma through pharmacological or biological neuroprotectants and overcoming the physical impediment of the injury cyst through the implantation of exogenous cells or by harnessing endogenous cellular repair mechanisms. Additionally, we’re studying the promotion of axon regeneration by the stimulation of intracellular signaling pathways important in the initiation and/or maintenance of axon growth.

Miguel Perez-Pinzon, PhD

Miguel Perez-Pinzon, Ph.D.

Peritz Scheinberg Endowed Professor, Neurology

Email: perezpinzon@med.miami.ed
u

Research Focus: My research expertise is in the area of cerebral ischemia and brain metabolism. 

Keywords: Cognitive impairment, synaptic function, mitochondrial dysfunction, physical exercise

Vittorio Porciatti, DSc

Vittorio Porciatti, D.Sc.

James L Knight Professor, Ophthalmology

Email: vporciatti@miami.edu

My research focuses on visual neurophysiology, and optic neuropathies.

Keywords: Retinal ganglion cells, glaucoma, optic neuropathy, electrophysiology
Abhisjek Prasad

Abhishek Prasad, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering

Email: a.prasad@miami.edu

My research interests include neural electrodes, neuroprosthetics, motor neurophysiology, and brain-machine interfaces.

Suhrud Rajguru, PhD

Suhrud Rajguru, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering

Email: s.rajguru@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on Neuroprosthetics, Neural Engineering, Neurophysiology.

Ami P. Raval, Ph.D.

Ami P. Raval, Ph.D.

Research Associate Professor, Neurology

Lab | PublicationsEmail 

Keywords: Stroke, Cerebral ischemia, Female, Estrogen, Smoking, Oral contraceptives

Research Focus: Dr. Raval's research expertise is in the area of cerebral ischemia, which results from cardiac arrest or stroke, and mitochondrial biology. Her ongoing research focuses on elucidating the mechanism(s) by which the female hormone - estrogen - decreases the risk of cerebral ischemia in females utilizing in vivo and in vitro cerebral models in rodents.

Sandra Rieger, PhD

Sandra Rieger, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Biology

Email: srieger@miami.edu

In the Rieger laboratory, we dedicate our research to understanding two distinct yet impactful forms of peripheral nerve damage: chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), a common side effect of chemotherapy treatment, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a frequent complication in diabetes. We focus particularly on the role of skin cell damage in both CIPN and DPN. Our groundbreaking research has revealed a key mechanism behind skin damage and axon degeneration: the formation of reactive oxygen species, triggered by the toxicity of chemotherapy agents and elevated glucose levels. Damaged skin cells upregulate matrix-metalloproteinase enzymes, which catalyze the breakdown of extracellular matrix, leading to the subsequent degeneration of associated cutaneous sensory nerve endings. Our mission encompasses two primary objectives: firstly, to unravel the complex molecular mechanisms underlying these neuropathies, thereby deepening our understanding of their etiology and identifying new targets for therapeutic interventions. Secondly, we are committed to leveraging this knowledge to pioneer novel drug therapies. These treatments are aimed at effectively addressing and managing nerve damage associated with both CIPN and DPN, offering renewed hope and improved quality of life for patients affected by these conditions.


Stephen Roper, PhD

Stephen Roper, Ph.D.

Professor, Physiology and Biophysics

Email: sroper@med.miami.edu

I study the molecular and cellular physiology of sensory organs. My research focuses on signal transduction and processing in taste buds. I use functional imaging with voltage-, pH-, ion-sensitive fluorescent dyes, confocal microscopy, and electrophysiology.

Richard Rotundo, PhD

Richard Rotundo, Ph.D.

Professor, Cell Biology

Email: rrotundo@med.miami.edu

Our laboratory focuses on the regulation of neurotransmission via the enzyme, acetylcholinesterase. We study the contributions of protein folding and assembly in regulating active molecules at synapses, the development of novel probes for identifying cholinergic synapses, RNA-binding proteins that control protein translation at muscle and neuronal synapses in response to specific signals, and the repair of neuromuscular and CNS cholinergic synapse following acetylcholinesterase inactivation.

Sabita Roy, PhD

Sabita Roy, Ph.D.

Professor, Surgery

Email: sabita.roy@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on opioid-induced analgesic tolerance – a decrease in anti-analgesic response following repeated or high-dose morphine administration, potentiate drug dependence, addiction, overdose, and respiration depression.
Jacqueline Sagen, PhD, MBA

Jacqueline Sagen, Ph.D., MBA

Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: jsagen@med.miami.edu

My research aims to discover novel therapeutic strategies for chronic pain management on a long-term or permanent basis. Gene therapy or cell transplantation can provide a continually renewable source of pain-reducing substances. Recent work has focused on developing novel analgesic peptides engineered for direct delivery or via cellular transplantation.

Michael Schmale, PhD

Michael Schmale, Ph.D.

Professor, Marine Biology

Email: m.schmale@miami.edu

My research interests are in marine animal models of disease processes, with an emphasis on cancer. Ongoing research includes a unique, virus-like agent that causes peripheral nervous systems and pigment cell tumors in bicolor damselfish on Florida reefs; vector design and optimization of transgenesis in zebrafish; the effect of toxins from algal blooms using zebrafish; and health and husbandry of California sea hares (Aplysia californica) used in neurobiological research.
Delia Shelton PhD

Delia Shelton, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Biology

Lab | Publications | Email
Office Location: Cox Science Building, Room 13
Lab Location: Rosenstiel Medical Science Building #2069
Phone305-284-2494

Graduate ProgramsNeuroscience

KeywordsMy research is centered on understanding 1) neural and genetic mechanisms that underlie contaminant-induced behavioral disorders, 2) transgenerational effects of contaminant toxicity, 3) effects of structural racism on human and environmental health, and 4) developing commercializable tools to translate our research for practical applications. 

Research FocusMy research program is centered on understanding the neural and genetic mechanisms that underlie contaminant-induced behavioral disorders across generations. We focus on contaminants that directly impact human and environmental health such as metals (e.g., cadmium, lead) PFAS and microplastics. To address these questions, we use high-throughput behavioral phenotyping, whole brain mapping, calcium imaging, next generation sequencing, laser ablation inductively coupled mass spectrometry and vertebrate models (zebrafish and mice).
William Scott, PhD

William Scott, Ph.D.

Professor, Human Genetics, Neurology, and Public Health Sciences
Executive Director, UM Brain Endowment Bank

Email: w.scott@med.miami.edu

Dr. Scott is a genetic epidemiologist interested in the influence of genetic and environmental factors on susceptibility to infectious diseases and complex traits associated with aging. Currently funded projects include genetic studies of tuberculosis and bacterial sepsis, and gene-environment interaction in age-related macular degeneration and Parkinson's disease.

Faculty - Valery Shestopalov - Headshot

Valery Shestopalov, Ph.D.

Professor, Ophthalmology

Email: vshestopalov@miami.edu

The Shestopalov laboratory is investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie retinal and optic nerve pathologies and cause blindness in glaucoma and diverse optic neuropathies. We ask how retinal ganglion cells become dysfunctional, progressively lose their dendrites, axons, and die after injury induced by ocular hypertension or mechanical stresses? Our projects aim at finding disease-causative pathways that we can target using precision medicine to stop the progression of pathologies. We use the multi-omics approach to screen and identify pathways mechanistically implicated in disease initiation and progression. We test small molecules, RNAi, and AAV2 gene modulation constructs to validate the feasibility of different disease pathway-targeting therapies.

Vladlen Slepak, PhD

Vladlen Slepak, Ph.D.

Professor, Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology

Email: vslepak@med.miami.edu

Our lab is investigating novel mechanisms in G protein signal transduction. We work on receptors in the eye, neuronal, and pancreatic cells. We focus on cellular and molecular level studies, but our research is relevant to hormonal regulation of obesity, diabetes, and ocular disorders.

Robert M Starke, MD

Robert Starke, M.D.

Associate Professor, Clinical Neurosurgery and Neuroradiology

Lab | Email

Research Summary: The goal of the laboratory is to study cerebral aneurysm biology from a clinical, translational, therapeutic, and basic science perspective. In particular we are interested in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms which lead to cerebral aneurysm formation, growth, and rupture and to investigate new avenues for cerebral aneurysm treatment. Our laboratory is uniquely suited to investigate this question using a multipronged approach consisting of cell culture, experimental aneurysm models, advanced imaging modalities and clinical studies. We also have a robust clinical trials team which supports translational assessment and randomized clinical trials in humans.

Keywords: Aneurysms, brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations/fistulas, neuro-oncology 

Sheyum Syed, PhD Photo

Sheyum Syed, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Physics

 
Research Focus: My research explores circadian behavior in Drosophila.
 
Keywords: Biological clocks, Drosophila melanogaster, sleep-wake transitions, color preference, circadian rhythms
Luis Tuesta PhD Headshot

Luis M. Tuesta, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

 
My research explores molecular mechanisms of addictive disorders.
 
Keywords: Addiction, relapse, epigenetics, genomics, bioinformatics, optogenetics, self-administration, opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine, neuroinflammation, microglia 
Arlene Turner

Arlener D. Turner, Ph.D.

Research Assistant Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

E-mail: arlener.turner@miami.edu
Phone: 305-355-9061

Research Focus: Dr. Turner’s overall research objective is to achieve health equity in modifiable risk factors for cognitive dysfunction, cognitive decline & neurodegenerative disorders. To this end, her work is centered on investigating how health can impact cognition, and how this relationship intersects with race/ethnicity via conditions that disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities. Currently Dr. Turner is studying the multifaceted ways in which disturbed sleep can increase risk for cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease, including but not limited to, health disparities, other modifiable risk factors, biomarkers, and genetic polymorphisms.

Pantelis Tsoulfas, PhD

Pantelis Tsoulfas, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: ptsoulfa@med.miami.edu

Our research focuses on developing the nervous system, neurotrophic signaling, and repair of the CNS after spinal cord injury. Using live fluorescent imaging techniques, we examine how mitogenic factors influence cell numbers and how cell fates are linked to specific transcriptional networks. Additionally, we are exploring spinal cord injury repair strategies that use neurotrophins and grafting of CNS-derived cells.

Jeffery Vance, MD, PhD

Jeffery Vance, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, Human Genetics, Neurology

Email: jvance@med.miami.edu

Our primary areas of expertise lie in neurogenetics (especially in Parkinson’s disease and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease), cardiovascular genetics, human genotyping and banking of DNA samples, and the molecular aspects of the positional cloning of human disease. My research has focused on applying clinical, molecular, and mathematical genetic techniques to identify genes leading to human disease.

Claude Henry Volmar

Claude-Henry Volmar, Ph.D.

Research Assistant Professor

Lab | Email

Phone: 305-243-8822

My research program mainly consists of investigating the contributions of epigenetic mechanisms in sexual dimorphism-related gene expression pathways that also play a direct role in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), aging and metabolic disease. The epigenetic regulators of these processes have not been targeted for drug repurposing in disease relevant cells. One of our aims is to generate whole transcriptomic signatures of FDA-approved and clinically tested small molecule epigenetic modulators in primary CNS cells as an innovative resource for neuroscience research. This approach can provide a means of investigating efficacious therapeutics for AD patients and other neurodegenerative diseases. We are also working to identify small molecules and non-coding RNA strategies to promote a healthy aging profile and affect AD-related networks.

Regina Vontell, Ph.D.

Regina Vontell, Ph.D.

Research Assistant Professor, Neurology
Co-Director, Brain Endowment Bank

Email: rvontell@miami.edu

My research focuses on inflammatory mediators in the brain and their relation to complex diseases, including studies that identify potential targets for neuronal inflammation.

Claes Wahlestedt PhD

Claes Wahlestedt, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Associate Dean, Therapeutic Innovation
Director, Center for Therapeutic Innovation

Lab | Publications | Email
Phone: 305-243-1367
Location: BRB 407

Affiliations: Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Center for Therapeutic Innovation

Graduate Programs: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Human Genetics & Genomics, Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology, Neuroscience

Research Focus: We study the role of the non-coding RNAs in schizophrenia, the role of microRNA in the mechanisms of drug dependency, regulatory RNA’s as mediators and biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease, the discovery and development of nociception receptor ligands in alcohol dependence, noncoding RNAsepigenomic modulators in Alzheimer’s Disease, the discovery of a potent and selective neuropeptide YY2 receptor antagonist probes, and comprehensive analysis of FRM1 locus transcriptional landscape.

Gaofeng Wang, PhD

Gaofeng Wang, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Human Genetics

Email: gwang@med.miami.edu

Dr. Wang is a molecular geneticist who focuses on redox genomics, a new research field developed in the Wang lab. Currently, his research projects include the sepigenomic regulation of ascorbate in diabetic peripheral neuropathy and diabetic dementia. 

Scott Welford PhD

Scott Welford, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Radiation Oncology

LabPublications | Email
Location: Papanicolaou, Room 503
Phone: 305-243-8337

Graduate Program(s): Cancer Biology, Neuroscience

Keywords: Hypoxia, radiobiology, tumor microenvironmental interactions, tissue toxicity

Research Focus: We are interested in the GBM tumor microenvironment, hypoxia, and radiobiology, using tissue culture models, tumor models, and clinical trial samples to more clearly define unique aspects of tumor cells that can be used for therapeutic intervention. In particular, focus on both the tumor and normal brain biology, attempting to understand the determinants of therapeutic resistance, and normal tissue toxicity.

Eva Widerström-Noga, PhD

Eva Widerström-Noga, Ph.D.

Research Associate Professor, Neurological Surgery

Email: ewiderstrom-noga@med.miami.edu

To facilitate the translation of basic research findings and the development of tailored treatments, my research focuses on identifying clinical correlations to mechanisms underlying pain after neurological injury. This research is interdisciplinary, involving in-depth assessments of pain, psychosocial impact, neurological dysfunction, and biomarkers.


Gil Yosipovitch, M.D.

Gil Yosipovitch, M.D.

Professor, Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery

Email: gxy84@med.miami.edu

My research focuses on investigating the causes and treatments of complex skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, and diseases of other organ systems with skin manifestations and chronic itch.


Juan Young, PhD

Juan Young, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Human Genetics

Email: jyoung3@med.miami.edu

We focus on epigenetic mechanisms regulating CNS function and mouse models of neurological diseases.

Zane Zeier, PhD

Zane Zeier, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences

Lab | Publications | Email
Phone
: 305-246-3455
Location: BRB 413

Affiliations: Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences 

Graduate Programs: Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology, Neuroscience

Research Summary: Dr. Zeier’s cancer-related interests include both epigenetic mechanisms and therapeutic development. In addition to some of his epigenetic small molecule development programs, he is also interested in the development of small molecules targeting specific nucleocytoplasmic transport pathways. He developed a battery of fluorescent biosensors that can be utilized in high content imaging assays to probe nucleocytoplasmic transport kinetics. Small molecules capable of perturbing these pathways could have therapeutic potential for some forms of cancer. He has also been investigating the role of nucleophosmin in neurodegenerative disease. He has discovered a potential mechanism whereby cancer cells with nucelophosmin mutations may be selectively killed, thus having relevance to AML therapies.

R. Grace Zhai, PhD

R. Grace Zhai, Ph.D.

Professor of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology
Director, DREAM Scholarship Program

Publications | Email
Phone305-243-6316
Location: RMSB 6069

Graduate ProgramsHuman Genetics and Genomics, Molecular and Cellular PharmacologyNeuroscience

Research SummaryDr. Zhai’s research is focused on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms of neural degeneration and protection in the context of both common and rare neurological disorders.  Her group uses a ‘Drosophila - mammalian two-model system,' to identify genetic components in Drosophila and characterize the cellular mechanisms in mammalian cells.  Her group discovered and characterized one of the most robust neuroprotective factors that have broad therapeutic potential against several neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease. At the same time, her group has established numerous genetic models for rare diseases and carried out mechanistic analyses of neurological phenotypes that have led to successful therapies in human patients.

Stephan Züchner, MD, PhD

Stephan Züchner, M.D., Ph.D.

Chair, Human Genetics
Professor, Human Genetics, Neurology

Email: szuchner@med.miami.edu

Next-generation sequencing has transformed the genetics field. We use clinical, bioinformatics, and molecular approaches to study the outcome of large-scale exome and whole genome sequencing projects in pursuit of identifying and understanding the function of novel disease genes for neuromuscular and neurodegenerative disorders.