Arshak R. Alexanian

Dr. Arshak R. Alexanian is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin and a member of the Cardiovascular Research Center. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he has held faculty positions at Colorado State University and has been continuously affiliated with the Medical College of Wisconsin since 2001, progressing from Assistant Professor to his current adjunct position.

Dr. Alexanian's research focuses on stem cell reprogramming, neural differentiation, and epigenetic mechanisms with applications for neurological disorders. His work bridges basic science and translational medicine, particularly in developing cell-based therapies for Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury, and glioblastoma. He has pioneered methods using small molecule combinations to reprogram mesenchymal stem cells into neural-like cells without genetic manipulation, creating promising therapeutic approaches.

His recent publications (2022-2024) demonstrate continued productivity in epigenetic reprogramming, Parkinson's disease models, and glioblastoma treatment strategies. These works reveal a consistent research trajectory focused on developing clinically applicable stem cell technologies that emphasize safety, efficiency, and translational potential.

Notable Scientific Awards:

• George Soros Foundation Award (1994)
• UNESCO International Training Course Award (1995)
• Committee of 6th European Symposium on Calcium Binding Proteins (2000)
• American Association of Anatomists Award (2002)
• Global Spine Congress Award (2009)
• World Forum for Spine Research Award (2010)

Dr. Alexanian has secured significant research funding as Principal Investigator, including multiple NIH SBIR grants, NSF awards, and foundation support for his work on stem cell reprogramming and neural regeneration. His research program has consistently focused on developing clinically translatable approaches to neurological disorders through innovative stem cell technologies.