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Lionel B IvashkivView profile

Professor

• Autoimmunity
• Inflammatory diseases
• Cytokine signaling
• +7 more

Lionel B Ivashkiv, MD , is Professor of Medicine and Immunology at Weill Cornell Medical College and Chief Scientific Officer at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) , positions he has held since 1992. His dual affiliation places him at the forefront of translational research in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Education: MD, Harvard Medical School (1984) BA, Columbia University (1980) Research Focus: Dr. Ivashkiv's laboratory investigates cytokine-mediated pathogenesis in autoimmune, inflammatory, and musculoskeletal diseases. His work centers on the regulation of cytokine signaling, gene transcription, and epigenomic control of myeloid cells, osteoclasts, and synovial fibroblasts in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and inflammatory osteolysis. He employs cutting-edge techniques including RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, and CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing to dissect molecular mechanisms and identify precision medicine approaches. Recent Trends in Publications: His recent work spans from epigenetic reprogramming of macrophages and monocytes to translational models of implant failure and fibrosis. Key themes include the interplay between TNF, IFN-γ, and IL-10 in shaping inflammatory responses, the role of epigenetic modifiers like EZH2 and KDM1A in osteoclastogenesis, and the development of computational tools for musculoskeletal pathology. Grants & Collaborations: Dr. Ivashkiv's research is supported by multiple NIH and foundation grants. He collaborates extensively with clinicians and engineers at HSS and Weill Cornell, and serves as a consultant to Eli Lilly and Company, translating his findings into therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases. Laboratory & Teams: His lab integrates basic science with translational medicine, working closely with orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists, and bioinformaticians. The team focuses on identifying druggable targets in cytokine and epigenetic pathways to modulate inflammation and tissue damage in autoimmune diseases.

Adviye ErgulView profile

Professor

• Vascular complications of diabetes and hypertension
• Acute ischemic stroke
• Alzheimer's Disease Related Deteriorias
• +5 more

Adviye Ergul is a Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. She holds secondary appointments at Augusta University and the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center. Her research focuses on vascular complications of diabetes and hypertension, acute ischemic stroke, and Alzheimer's disease-related dementias, with specific emphasis on endothelial cell biology and vascular pathology. Education : MD from Cerrahpasa Medical School (Istanbul, Turkey, 1987), PhD in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology from University of Miami School of Medicine (1995), postdoctoral training in Vascular Biology at University of Georgia. Her work explores mechanisms of endothelin system dysfunction , microvascular senescence , and inflammatory pathways in diabetic and hypertensive conditions. Recent studies investigate novel therapies like angiotensin receptor agonists and iron chelation for post-stroke cognitive impairment. She has published extensively on diabetes-stroke interactions , endothelin signaling , and sex differences in vascular disease. Key research trends include neurovascular unit remodeling , microemboli-mediated dementia , and mitochondrial quality control in brain injury. Her laboratory developed diabetic stroke models to test interventions like linagliptin and bosentan . Awards : NIH Individual Research Service Award, American Heart Association Scientist Development Award, Veterans Administration Research Career Scientist, Regents’ Professorship, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.

Gabrielle StrykerView profile

Professor

• Immunology
• Molecular Microbiology
• Parasitology
• +2 more

Gabrielle Stryker is a Professor at Central Washington University specializing in parasitic diseases caused by Kinetoplastid organisms. She teaches General Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology while leading research on molecular mechanisms of pathogens including Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas disease), Trypanosoma brucei (sleeping sickness), and Leishmania species. Education Ph.D. in Immunology/Molecular Microbiology, Johns Hopkins University (1995) Research Focus Her laboratory investigates the paraflagellar rod (PFR) – a critical motility structure in Kinetoplastid flagella – using molecular biology and cellular immunology techniques. Current work examines PFR protein immunogenicity for vaccine development and mathematical modeling of disease transmission dynamics. The research has demonstrated that recombinant PFR proteins protect mice from lethal T. cruzi challenge, highlighting their therapeutic potential. Publication Analysis Her 11 most recent publications (1997-2023) reveal three interconnected research strands: (1) Mathematical modeling of Chagas disease transmission and control strategies, (2) Experimental studies on Leishmania cross-species immunity and infection progression, and (3) Molecular characterization of PFR proteins and their role in parasite biology. This interdisciplinary approach bridges computational epidemiology, immunology, and molecular parasitology to address tropical disease challenges. Research Infrastructure Professor Stryker maintains an active laboratory in Science Building 236C, employing techniques ranging from molecular cloning to in vivo infection models. Her work on piezoimmunosensors and implantable filtration devices demonstrates translational applications of basic research findings for diagnostic and therapeutic development.

Marc Aurel BuscheView profile

Researcher

• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Alzheimer's Disease Pathophysiology
• Neural Circuit Dysfunction
• +5 more

Dr Marc Aurel Busche is a Group Leader at the UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) at University College London (UCL) and serves as an Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist at the Queen Square Institute of Neurology . With a unique dual focus on clinical psychiatry and cutting-edge Alzheimer's research, Dr Busche bridges translational neuroscience and patient care through his work. His research explores early functional circuit biomarkers in Alzheimer’s disease using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and machine learning , alongside two-photon imaging , optogenetics , and Neuropixels technology in disease models. Collaborations with UCL’s Ray Dolan and Nick Fox, as well as Oxford’s David Dupret, underscore his interdisciplinary approach to discovering therapeutic targets and early detection methods . Dr Busche’s publications span amyloid-beta dynamics , tau pathology , and neural hyperactivity , reflecting a commitment to uncovering the cellular mechanisms behind Alzheimer’s. He has received notable awards, including the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship (2019) and the EMBO Fellowship (2016) , which have supported his innovative work.

Gad HeilweilView profile

Associate Professor

• Retinal Diseases
• Gene Therapy
• Stem Cell Therapy
• +5 more

Gad Heilweil, MD is an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Department of Ophthalmology and practices at the Doheny Eye Center UCLA in Pasadena. He specializes in medical and surgical retina care, offering advanced treatments for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) , diabetic retinopathy , retinal vein occlusions , and macular dystrophies . He also serves on academic committees and trains future ophthalmologists. Education: MD, Ruth & Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion Israel Institute of Technology (1997) Ophthalmology Residency, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (2009) Research Fellowship in Vitreo-Retinal Surgery, Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA (2012) Dr. Heilweil’s research focuses on innovative treatments for retinal diseases , including stem cell therapies and gene therapies for AMD and Stargardt’s macular dystrophy. His work spans clinical trials , multi-center studies , and advanced ocular imaging . His publications highlight expertise in retinal vascular diseases , gene therapy , stem cell transplantation , and anti-VEGF treatments . Key trends include quantification of retinal ischemia , adjunctive therapies for AMD , and surgical innovations for complex retinal conditions. Scientific Awards: American Academy of Ophthalmology Best Poster Award Top Doctor, Pasadena Magazine Top Doctor, Los Angeles Magazine Dr. Heilweil is actively involved in training ophthalmologists and integrating state-of-the-art technology into clinical practice. He is affiliated with Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and accepts multiple insurance providers.

Susan E QuagginView profile

Professor

• Nephrology
• Vascular Health
• Hypertension
• +7 more

Susan E Quaggin, MD, is the Irving S. Cutter Professor of Medicine, Chair of the Department of Medicine, and Director of the Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. She is a physician-scientist renowned for her research in nephrology, vascular biology, and kidney disease pathophysiology. Education: Doctor of Medicine (University of Toronto) Nephrology Fellowship (University of Toronto) Postdoctoral Fellowships: Molecular Biology of Kidney Development (Igarashi Lab, Yale University), Mouse Genetics (Rossant Lab, University of Toronto) Quaggin's research focuses on kidney and cardiovascular health, particularly the roles of vascular endothelial growth factor in kidney failure, thrombotic microangiopathy, and pre-eclampsia. Her work has led to novel protocols for renal assessments and therapeutic advancements for patients at high risk of cardiovascular mortality due to kidney disease. She has also contributed to understanding lymphatic valve development and its implications for lymphedema treatment. Her scientific awards include the 2024 ASN John P. Peters Award, 2022 AHA Distinguished Scientist Award, and 2023 Fondation Lefoulon-Delalande Grand Prix Scientifique. She is a member of the National Academy of Medicine, American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and other prestigious societies. Quaggin is Deputy Editor of The Journal of Clinical Investigation , Co-Editor of Seldin and Geibisch: The Kidney , and has published over 180 peer-reviewed articles. As ASN President (2021-2024), she prioritized reducing disparities in kidney care and advancing access to innovative therapies.

Synnøve MagnussenView profile

Researcher

• Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Plasminogen Activation System
• Tumor Microenvironment
• +4 more

Synnøve Magnussen is affiliated with the Faculty of Health Sciences, focusing on cancer biology and tumor progression. Her research spans oral squamous cell carcinoma, the plasminogen activation system, nephronectin’s role in cancer, and immunogenic cell death mechanisms. Key Research Areas: Cancer biomarkers, tumor microenvironment, metastasis, marine-derived therapeutics. Notable Work: Investigated uPAR/PAI-1 in oral cancer progression; characterized nephronectin’s integrin-binding domains in breast cancer brain metastasis. Publications: Recent studies explore marine mimics for cytotoxicity (2023), tumor immune microenvironment dynamics (2024), and DAMP-inducing compounds (2022). Academic Contributions: Collaborated on validating prognostic markers (2021) and hypoxia-driven vascular permeability (2022).

Kristine WiddersView profile

Assistant Professor

• Breast Cancer
• Surgical Oncology
• Tumor Recurrence
• +3 more

Kristine Widders, MD serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery within the College of Medicine at Pennsylvania State University, specializing in General Surgery and Surgical Oncology at the Penn State Cancer Institute. Her research focuses on critical aspects of breast cancer survivorship and diagnostics, including: Mechanisms of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence and surgical management Sociodemographic disparities affecting rehabilitation outcomes Advanced imaging techniques for rare breast tumors like granular cell neoplasms Arm function restoration protocols post-mastectomy Analysis of her publications reveals a concentrated trajectory in breast oncology since 2016, with increasing emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches integrating surgical oncology, radiology, and rehabilitation science. Her 2024 work demonstrates innovative cross-application of prostate cancer imaging technology to breast diagnostics. Dr. Widders actively collaborates with national research teams across institutions, with her 2022 review on work reintegration disparities accumulating significant scholarly attention (40 Mendeley readers). Her laboratory and clinical teams focus on: Longitudinal tracking of breast cancer survivorship metrics Optimizing sentinel lymph node biopsy success rates Developing disparity-sensitive rehabilitation frameworks

Alexander GowView profile

Professor

• Neurogenetics
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Myelin Biology
• +4 more

Alexander Gow is Professor of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Pediatrics, and Neurology at Wayne State University, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases and white matter disorders. His research spans multiple disciplines including molecular genetics, neuroscience, and computational biology. PhD from University of Queensland (1990) Charles H. Gershenson Distinguished Fellow Associate Director, Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics His research explores: Protein misfolding in Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) in neurodegeneration Claudin-11 protein's role in myelin and auditory function Drug development pipelines for neurodegenerative disorders Mouse models for white matter diseases Computational modeling of neural systems Recent publications focus on myelin integrity analysis, neurodegenerative modeling, and AI applications in biomedical research. Notable collaborations include researchers from Biomedical Engineering, Psychiatry, and Otolaryngology departments at Wayne State University. Scientific awards include multiple Research Excellence Awards from Wayne State University (2004, 2009, 2013) and the Charles H. Gershenson Distinguished Fellowship (2010).

• Physiology
• Vascular Physiology
• Lymphatic Physiology
• +4 more

Joseph N. Benoit, Ph.D. is a Professor of Physiology & Pathology with over thirty years of distinguished academic leadership. His career trajectory includes: Faculty appointments at five medical schools Graduate school dean with campus-wide authority Presidency at a Benedictine liberal arts college Professor Benoit's research evolved from foundational work in microvascular physiology, vascular smooth muscle regulation, and lymphatic physiology to contemporary focus on medical education systems. He now specializes in curriculum design, research infrastructure development, and faculty development for new medical schools, bridging physiological sciences with educational innovation. With over 200 publications spanning papers, abstracts, and book chapters, Professor Benoit maintains an active scholarly presence. His international speaking engagements across six continents—including the U.S., Canada, Japan, China, Europe, and Australia—demonstrate global recognition of his dual expertise in physiology and academic leadership. While specific current advising details aren't provided, his extensive administrative experience suggests strong capacity for mentoring academic careers and developing educational programs.

• Physiotherapy
• Pain Management
• Fibromyalgia
• +3 more

Marta Valencia Prieto serves as Full Professor in the Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of León, a position she has held continuously since 2003 with dual five-year teaching accreditation periods. Her instructional responsibilities encompass advanced clinical courses including Kinesiotherapy, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Hydrotherapy, and specialized Pain Management protocols. Her research program centers on fibromyalgia rehabilitation and evidence-based pain management , conducted through active collaboration with the BB169 research group (Physiotherapy and Health) . This work integrates clinical practice with academic investigation to develop therapeutic protocols for chronic pain conditions. Professor Valencia Prieto maintains a robust publication record featuring 5 book chapters and 4 articles in premier international journals including Clinical Rehabilitation and Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation , alongside conference proceedings advancing physiotherapy science. Her scholarly focus spans these key domains: Physiotherapy Pain Management Fibromyalgia Interventions Manual Therapy Techniques Hydrotherapeutic Applications Lymphatic Drainage Systems Contact is facilitated through email marta.valencia@unileon.es or phone +34 987 442 071 from her office at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Avenida de Astorga, 24400 Ponferrada.

• Lymphatic system function and dysfunction
• Vascular physiology
• Calcium signaling in lymphatic vessels
• +7 more

Jorge A. Castorena, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at Tulane University School of Medicine, where he leads research on lymphatic system function and dysfunction. His academic journey began with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Physics from Universidad de Guanajuato in México, followed by a PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Missouri. After completing a postdoctoral fellowship under Dr. Michael J. Davis at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, he served as a Research Assistant Professor before joining Tulane University in 2020. Dr. Castorena's research program focuses on understanding the mechanisms through which the lymphatic system becomes dysfunctional and contributes to cardiovascular diseases. His lab investigates the critical relationship between obesity and lymphatic dysfunction, as well as the effects of aging on lymphatic system function. The lymphatic system serves multiple vital roles including returning interstitial fluid to circulation, immune cell trafficking, dietary lipid absorption, and unfortunately, serving as a pathway for cancer metastasis. His laboratory employs a sophisticated array of techniques including simultaneous multi-channel confocal microscopy for intracellular calcium imaging, pressure myography on isolated lymphatic vessels from animal models and humans, lymphatic primary cell cultures, and electron microscopy. The lab also develops innovative computational tools for automated data and image analysis, reflecting Dr. Castorena's strong physics and engineering background. Analysis of Dr. Castorena's publication record (2020-2025) reveals a strong focus on lymphatic physiology, with particular emphasis on calcium signaling mechanisms, lymphatic valve function, and the impact of metabolic stress on lymphatic contractility. His work frequently examines the role of specific ion channels (KATP, TRPV4, T-type calcium channels) and connexin proteins in lymphatic function. Recent publications demonstrate expanding research into connections between lymphatic function and neurological conditions via the glymphatic system. Dr. Castorena serves as a TIPS Mentor in Tulane's Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, providing research opportunities for students interested in vascular biology, lymphatic physiology, and related interdisciplinary fields. His lab offers comprehensive training in advanced physiological techniques and computational analysis methods, preparing students for careers at the intersection of engineering, physics, and biomedical sciences.

• Immunology
• Lymphocyte migration
• Inflammatory diseases
• +5 more

Sirpa Tuulikki Jalkanen is a distinguished Professor of Immunology at the University of Turku, serving as Special Advisor in the Department of Biomedicine and InFLAMES Flagship Professor. Appointed Academician of Science in 2015, she has been a leading figure in immunological research for over four decades. Her research focuses on lymphocyte migration mechanisms within the immune system, with significant contributions to understanding inflammatory diseases and cancer progression. Professor Jalkanen's work spans multiple disciplines including cytokine networks, gut microbiome interactions, and molecular imaging techniques, particularly examining CD206 receptor targeting in inflammatory conditions. Analysis of her recent publications (2024-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on translational immunology, with studies connecting basic immune mechanisms to clinical applications in cardiology, oncology, and respiratory medicine. Her work demonstrates consistent innovation in connecting inflammatory processes to diverse disease states. Professor Jalkanen's scientific achievements have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards: Duodecim Young Scientist Award (1987) Äyräpää Award (2008) Datta Medal (2011) Anders Jahren Award (2005) Academician of Science (2015) Second prize in European Women Inventors Competition (2016) As a successful academic entrepreneur, Professor Jalkanen co-founded Biotie Therapies (acquired by Acorda Therapeutics in 2016) and Faron Pharmaceuticals, translating her immunological research into clinical applications. Her laboratory, The Research Group MediCity, continues to produce high-impact research with numerous publications in top-tier journals through 2025, maintaining her position as one of the world's leading immunologists.

William A MullerView profile

Professor

• Inflammation
• Pathology
• Vascular Biology
• +5 more

William A Muller, MD, PhD is the Janardan K. Reddy, MD Professor of Pathology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. He served as Chair of the Department of Pathology from 2007 until stepping down in July 2016, but remains an active faculty member with significant research and clinical contributions. Currently, he serves as President of the American Society for Investigative Pathology (since July 2022) and continues to lead a vibrant research laboratory while maintaining clinical duties on the adult autopsy service with 25% effort. BA: Harvard College (1975) PhD: Rockefeller University (1981) MD: Cornell Weill Medical College (1982) Intern: Massachusetts General Hospital (1983) Resident: Brigham & Women's Hospital (1987) Board Certification: Anatomic Pathology, American Board of Pathology Muller's research focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammation, particularly the process of diapedesis where leukocytes cross endothelial barriers. His laboratory has made seminal contributions including the identification of key molecules (PECAM/CD31, CD99, VE-cadherin) and the discovery of the Lateral Border Recycling Compartment (LBRC), a novel organelle critical for inflammatory cell migration. His work spans multiple disease models including atherosclerosis, stroke, myocardial infarction, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a continued focus on inflammatory mechanisms with expansion into neurovascular inflammation (stroke) and tumor metastasis. His research employs advanced techniques including 4-dimensional intravital microscopy across multiple vascular beds, with recent work exploring molecular targets for anti-inflammatory therapy based on LBRC function. Madri Lectureship, Yale School of Medicine (2025) 15th Annual Marvin Kuschner Memorial Lecture (2024) Ramzi Cotran Memorial Lecture, Harvard Medical School (2021) Elected to Association of American Physicians (2021) Outstanding Investigator Award, NHLBI (2021) Rous-Whipple Award, ASIP (2013) AAAS Fellow (2010) MERIT Award, NIH (2005) Muller has been instrumental in training the next generation of scientists and physicians, serving in numerous leadership roles including President of the North American Vascular Biology Organization and various positions in the American Society for Investigative Pathology. At Feinberg, he expanded the Diagnostic Molecular Pathology Lab, opened a state-of-the-art Cytogenetics Lab, and initiated programs to fund resident and fellow research. His current work focuses on neurovascular inflammation and tumor metastasis while continuing his clinical service on the autopsy rotation.

Stefan Schulte-MerkerView profile

Professor

• Vascular Biology
• Lymphatic Biology
• Cardiovascular Organogenesis
• +4 more

Prof. Dr. Stefan Schulte-Merker is a Professor at the University of Münster, where he leads the Institute for Cardiovascular Organogenesis and Regeneration (ICOR) within the Faculty of Medicine. His research focuses on vascular and lymphatic biology, particularly using zebrafish as a model system to study developmental processes and disease mechanisms. His research interests include: Vascular Biology and Angiogenesis Lymphatic vessel development and function Cardiovascular organogenesis and regeneration Developmental biology using zebrafish models Cell biology of endothelial cells Skeletal mineralization and bone development Prof. Schulte-Merker's laboratory has made significant contributions to understanding lymphatic endothelial cell biology, particularly discovering a unique population of lymphatic endothelial cells in the meningeal layer of the zebrafish brain that function as scavenger cells to remove waste products from the brain parenchyma. His work has implications for understanding neurological injury response and repair mechanisms. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on molecular mechanisms of lymphatic development, particularly involving signaling pathways like Angiopoietin-TIE and VEGFC, as well as the role of extracellular matrix proteins in vascular patterning. His research spans from basic developmental mechanisms to potential implications for human diseases including neurodegenerative disorders and vascular malformations. Prof. Schulte-Merker has received recognition through his students' achievements, including Melina Hußmann's paper being selected as "Paper of the Month" by the Faculty of Medicine in May 2023 and Sanjay Sunil Kumar winning the "best Presentation and Poster prize" at the Gordon Research Conference on Lymphatics in 2024. He actively mentors PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering a lively international research environment focused on cardiovascular science and regeneration. His lab participates in major scientific conferences and has organized workshops such as the Zebrafish Genome Engineering workshop that attracted 108 international participants.