Larry S. Sherman

Larry S. Sherman is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where he leads the Sherman Lab. His research focuses on neural stem/progenitor cells, glial biology, and mechanisms of demyelination and remyelination in neurodegenerative diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS) and perinatal brain injury. The lab integrates molecular, biochemical, morphological, behavioral, and electrophysiological analyses to develop novel therapeutic strategies for nervous system repair.

Dr. Sherman's primary research interests center on the glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan and its receptor CD44 in neural injury responses, the manipulation of extracellular matrix in neural stem cell niches to influence neurogenesis and learning, and the role of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling factors in oligodendrocyte and neuronal differentiation. His work has revealed novel mechanisms of pain in schwannomatosis through SWI/SNF subunit regulation of sensory nerve signaling genes. The Sherman Lab extensively utilizes rodent and non-human primate models to study demyelinating diseases and identify therapeutic targets.

Analysis of his recent publications (2018-2024) reveals strong emphasis on remyelination therapeutics, with significant focus on flavonoid compounds, hyaluronan metabolism inhibitors, and kynurenine pathway modulators. His work bridges basic chromatin remodeling mechanisms with translational applications in MS and perinatal brain injury, demonstrating consistent innovation in targeting extracellular matrix changes for neural repair. Key recurring themes include oligodendrocyte progenitor maturation, mitochondrial function in neuroprotection, and non-human primate modeling of human neurological disorders.

The Sherman Lab operates as a multidisciplinary team at OHSU, utilizing advanced techniques including multispectral imaging for CD44 detection in aging brains, electrophysiological analyses of neural function, and sophisticated animal models ranging from murine EAE to Japanese macaque encephalomyelitis. Their research environment integrates basic molecular discovery with preclinical therapeutic development for neurodegenerative conditions.