Modeling Pathological States of the Blood-Brain Barrier Derived from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells

Our group's primary research focus is to investigate varying pathological states of the blood brain barrier (BBB). We utilize human induced pluripotent stem cells to derive the BBB comprising of barrier forming brain microvascular endothelial cells supported by pericytes, neurons, and astrocytes.  We utilize the iPSC-derived BBB model to further understand how varying disease states affect the barrier and potentially a further exacerbation of the disease itself.  Our group is currently investigating how Diabetes, Alcohol Use Disorder, Alzheimer’s Disease, Cerebral Malaria, and Toxoplasmosis affect the Human BBB. The objective of this talk is to highlight some of our key findings in a number of different pathological conditions and stimulate some great conversations that potentially could lead to future collaborations.

Monthly lecture series hosted by the Center for Neuroregeneration.