Caryl Sortwell

Caryl E. Sortwell is a Professor of Translational Neuroscience and Edwin A. Brophy Endowed Chair in Central Nervous System Disorders at Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine. She leads the Sortwell Lab within the Neuroscience Program and Grand Rapids Research Center, focusing on Parkinson's disease (PD) therapeutics.

• Education: B.S. in Psychology/Pre-medicine (University of Illinois, 1987), Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology/Neurobiology (University of Illinois at Chicago, 1994)
• Positions: Assistant/Associate Professor at Rush University Medical Center (1997-2005), Associate Professor at University of Cincinnati (2005-2009), Professor at MSU College of Human Medicine (2009-present)

Her research investigates alpha-synuclein pathology in PD using preformed fibril models to study neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation, and therapeutic interventions. She explores neurotrophic factors like BDNF, gene therapies targeting CaV1.3 channels, and deep brain stimulation mechanisms. Her work emphasizes precision medicine approaches to optimize treatment outcomes.

Scientific contributions include methodological advancements in neurochemical sensing with diamond electrodes and viral vector delivery systems. Key collaborations include research with Dr. Joe Patterson on alpha-synuclein genetic consequences.

• Technical Expertise: Immunohistochemistry, stereotactic surgery, in vivo neurotoxicant models, protein analysis (Western blot/ELISA), droplet digital PCR, and neuroinflammatory profiling