James R Dutton

James R Dutton is an Associate Professor at the University of Minnesota's Stem Cell Institute with a joint appointment in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development. He also serves as a Research Manager 3, leading multiple NIH-funded projects focused on neurodegenerative diseases and regenerative medicine through 2027.

His research explores stem cell applications in human disease modeling and therapy, with expertise in:

• Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) reprogramming and differentiation
• Molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders (ALS, FTD, SCA1)
• Retinal degeneration pathophysiology and therapeutic targets
• Neural stem cell-mediated CNS regeneration
• RNA localization and cellular protrusion dynamics

Recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate strong focus on:

• Stem cell preservation techniques and protocol development
• Genetic regulation in evolutionary contexts
• Therapeutic pathways for age-related macular degeneration
• Molecular basis of oxidative stress in retinal diseases

He currently advises graduate students including Walker, K.E. and Nathan Kochen, and leads six active NIH grants exploring:

• SCA1 pathogenesis in cerebellar organoids
• TDP43 restoration for ALS/FTD treatment
• Neural crest RNA localization mechanisms
• Alpha-synuclein monitoring technologies
• Thrombin receptor targeting for CNS regeneration