Paulo Kofuji

Paulo Kofuji is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota, College of Biological Sciences. His research is focused on the role of glial cells—particularly astrocytes and microglia—in brain function and neurological disorders. He is actively involved in multiple NIH-funded research projects and maintains a strong publication record in high-impact neuroscience journals.

• University: University of Minnesota
• School: College of Biological Sciences
• Department: Department of Neuroscience
• Position: Associate Professor

Research Interests: Dr. Kofuji's work centers on glial cell biology, including astrocyte-neuron communication, calcium signaling, circadian regulation in glia, and the role of glia in neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s disease and spinocerebellar ataxia. His early work on melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells has contributed significantly to understanding non-image-forming vision and circadian photoentrainment.

Publication Trends: His recent publications (2023–2025) highlight a strong focus on astrocyte-mediated synaptic plasticity, calcium dynamics in glia, and the impact of glial dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions. The research integrates molecular, cellular, and behavioral approaches, often using transgenic mouse models.

Scientific Awards:

• No specific awards are mentioned in the provided text.

Advising and Grants: While student names are not listed, Dr. Kofuji has mentored researchers involved in his publications. He has secured multiple NIH grants as both Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator, including projects on circadian clocks in glia, retinal ganglion cells, and glial dysfunction in Huntington’s and SCA1 diseases.

Labs and Teams: Dr. Kofuji leads a research laboratory focused on glial physiology and collaborates extensively with prominent neuroscientists such as Alfonso Araque, Huda Zoghbi (via Orr), and Malvika Cvetanovic. His team investigates glial contributions to synaptic function, behavior, and disease mechanisms using advanced imaging, molecular biology, and behavioral assays.