معرفی
Dr. Thaarvena Retinasamy is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, where she conducts cutting-edge research in neuroscience, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy. She holds a PhD in Neuroscience and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Bioscience from Monash University Malaysia. She began her research career at the Brain Research Institute of Monash Sunway (BRIMS) in 2014 and has since developed expertise in neuropharmacology and behavioral neuroscience.
- PhD in Neuroscience, Monash University Malaysia (2015–2019)
- BSc in Medical Bioscience, Monash University Malaysia (2010–2013)
Dr. Retinasamy’s research is centered on understanding the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, with a focus on neuroinflammation, cognitive aging, and the neural basis of neurocognitive disorders. She employs advanced techniques such as stereotaxic surgery, animal model development, PCR, and immunohistochemistry to study brain-behavior relationships. Her work explores the therapeutic potential of natural products, particularly Malaysian medicinal plants like 'Misai kucing', in treating Alzheimer’s disease and related conditions.
Her recent publications, including high-impact review articles in journals like Molecular Neurobiology and Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, reflect a strong trend in neuroinflammation as a common pathway in Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy, the role of neurotransmitters, and the promise of plant-based interventions. Her research integrates molecular, behavioral, and pharmacological approaches to bridge gaps in understanding and treatment.
Dr. Retinasamy has been recognized with several awards, including:
- Silver Medal at ITEX 2018
- Best Poster Presentation (2023)
- Malaysian Society of Neuroscience (MSN) Education Grant (2022, 2024)
She is actively involved in mentoring, currently accepting PhD students and supervising Honours and SIP students. She also contributes to the academic community through editorial work as Editor-in-Chief of Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience (2024–2025) and by organizing key neuroscience events such as the 32nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Malaysian Society of Neurosciences and the Crosstalk Immune-Inflam Webinar. Her work supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in health and well-being through neuroscience research.
