Edwin S Monuki

Edwin S. Monuki, MD, PhD, is the Warren L. Bostick Professor and Chair of the Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) School of Medicine. He also serves as Associate Director of the Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD), CLIA Director of UCI Labs, and Director of the Neuropathology Core at the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center.

His research focuses on the choroid plexus and its role in brain development and neurodegenerative diseases. The Monuki Lab pioneers stem cell-derived choroid plexus epithelial cell (CPEC) models to study cerebrospinal fluid production, blood-CSF barrier function, and disease mechanisms, particularly in Alzheimer’s disease. The lab has developed a patented protocol for CPEC derivation, advancing regenerative and translational neuroscience.

Dr. Monuki’s work bridges developmental biology, neuropathology, and innovative cell modeling. He leads key institutional programs integrating research, clinical diagnostics, and medical education. His leadership in the Medical Scientist Training Program underscores his commitment to training future physician-scientists.

Scientific awards and honors are not specified in the available text.

Dr. Monuki advises graduate and medical students through the MD/PhD program and related research training initiatives. He oversees major research cores and labs, including the Neuropathology Core and the Monuki Lab, which maintains a Choroid Plexus Repository and develops stem cell models for disease study. His work is supported by institutional and likely federal research funding, though specific grants are not listed.

The Monuki Lab is a hub for choroid plexus research, combining basic science with clinical applications, and actively contributes to Alzheimer’s disease research through tissue and model development.