معرفی
Samuel Pfaff is a Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, where he leads the Gene Expression Laboratory and holds the Benjamin H. Lewis Chair in Neuroscience. He has been a principal investigator at the Salk Institute since 1996 and is widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in motor neuron development, spinal cord circuitry, and gene regulation. His research integrates genetics, biochemistry, optogenetics, and bioinformatics to understand how neural circuits control movement and how disruptions lead to neurodegenerative diseases.
- BA in Biology, Carleton College
- PhD in Molecular Biology, University of California, Berkeley
- Postdoctoral training at Vanderbilt University and Columbia University
Dr. Pfaff’s research focuses on the characterization of spinal circuits that control limb movements and the development of RNA-based strategies for treating genetic diseases. His lab investigates how the spinal cord integrates brain commands with sensory feedback to coordinate precise movements. They also explore how intrinsic RNA-processing machinery can be harnessed to reprogram gene expression for therapeutic purposes. Key questions include the composition of spinal neuron types, coordination of multi-joint movements, causes of motor neuron degeneration, and targeted gene therapy.
The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong emphasis on spinal circuitry, motor control, and gene therapy. Articles span topics from ultraflexible neural electrodes and Schwann cell-mediated nerve repair to RNA-based treatments for ALS and spinal muscular atrophy. The research employs cutting-edge techniques including single-cell RNA sequencing, viral tracing, and in vivo imaging, often in genetically modified mouse models. Collectively, these works demonstrate a trajectory toward understanding fundamental neural mechanisms and translating them into therapies for neurodegenerative conditions.
Scientific Awards:
- Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), 2021
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator, 2008
- Javits Neuroscience Investigator Award
- McKnight Scholar Award
- Pew Scholar Award
- Basil O'Connor Award
- Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellow Award
Dr. Pfaff mentors a diverse team of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research scientists, fostering a collaborative environment where trainees pursue independent yet interrelated projects. His lab has received major funding, including a $14.3 million NIH grant to map movement circuitry and a $10.8 million CIRM award for ALS therapy development. He also leads the Goldman Laboratory for Neural Circuit Dynamics and holds adjunct appointments in Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, Biology, and Bioengineering programs.
The Pfaff Lab maintains active research in spinal neuron connectivity, autonomic circuitry, and RNA systems for gene control, with a strong translational focus on diseases like ALS, spinal muscular atrophy, and peripheral neuropathy. Their innovative approaches, such as RNA end-joining technology, aim to overcome limitations in gene therapy vector capacity.
