Rehana K. Leak

Dr. Rehana K. Leak is an Assistant Professor of Pharmacology in the School of Pharmacy at Duquesne University. Her research program focuses on Lewy body disorders, including Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. She teaches multiple courses including Foundations in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Human Physiology and Pathology, and Neuronal Pharmacology.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh (1996-98)
• M.Sc. in Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh (1993-95)
• B.A. in Biopsychology, Barnard College (1988-92)

Dr. Leak's research laboratory investigates the causes and consequences of Lewy body disorders through multiple approaches. The Leak lab models these disorders in mice and rats in vivo and in primary neuron and glial cell cultures in vitro. Their central questions focus on whether the spread of Lewy pathology through the brain can be halted or decelerated with interventions, whether stress-inducible intrinsic defense systems naturally slow disease progression, and how Lewy pathology propagates through the brain. The lab also tests promising therapies in preclinical models and assesses human brain tissue for disease markers.

Analysis of Dr. Leak's recent publications reveals a strong focus on neurodegenerative mechanisms, particularly alpha-synuclein pathology in Lewy body disorders. Her work spans multiple approaches including in vivo models, in vitro cell cultures, and human tissue analysis. Recent publications demonstrate increasing collaboration across multiple institutions and disciplines, with significant work on neuroinflammation, microglial function, and sex differences in neurodegenerative processes. Her research shows a clear translational trajectory from basic mechanisms to potential therapeutic interventions.

Scientific Awards:

• Multiple NIH grants as Principal Investigator (2010-2026)
• President's Award for Excellence in Scholarship (Duquesne University, 2018)
• Inducted into Duquesne University Research Hall of Fame (2016)
• Outstanding New Investigator Award, Dose-Response Society (2014)
• Voted Professor of the Year by PY1 Duquesne Pharmacy students (2012)
• Multiple Publons Awards as top 1% reviewer in neuroscience journals

Dr. Leak has been highly successful in securing research funding, with continuous NIH and foundation support since 2010. Her grant portfolio demonstrates expertise in both basic and translational neuroscience research. She serves as an NIH ad hoc grant reviewer for multiple study sections and has been recognized for her scholarly contributions through editorial board appointments for journals including Acta Neuropathologica and Neurochemistry International. Dr. Leak has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral researchers, contributing to the training of the next generation of neuroscientists.

The Leak laboratory operates as a multidisciplinary team investigating neurodegenerative mechanisms using state-of-the-art techniques in molecular neuroscience, cellular biology, and animal modeling. The lab welcomes patients with neurological disorders and their caregivers for visits, demonstrating Dr. Leak's commitment to connecting research with the patient community directly affected by these conditions.