James Hewett

James Hewett is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Syracuse University's College of Arts and Sciences, serving as Executive Director of Neuroscience Studies and Director of the Neuroscience Graduate Concentration.

Research focuses on neuromodulatory mechanisms in neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy. Key investigations include:

• Role of cyclooxygenase-2 in seizure suppression
• Interleukin-1β signaling in neuronal hyperexcitability
• TIA-1 RNA binding protein in epileptogenesis
• Neuroinflammatory pathways following brain injury

Laboratory utilizes transgenic mouse models, electrophysiology, molecular biology, and neuropharmacological approaches to identify novel therapeutic targets for epilepsy.

The 2022 Neurobiology of Disease publication demonstrates constitutive IL-1β release in hippocampal neurons, suggesting homeostatic neuromodulatory functions. Currently investigating system xc- transporter roles in glutamate/glutathione homeostasis.

Teaches Principles of Human Toxicology, Pharmacology of Substance Abuse, and mentors graduate neuroscience students. Secured NIH/NINDS funding for epilepsy research mechanisms.