Thomas D. Corso

Thomas D. Corso is Professor of Biochemistry and Neuroscience in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Pharmacy, where he has held continuous appointments since 2001. His academic career includes prior roles as Associate Professor at LECOM (2005-2012), Visiting Professor at SUNY Buffalo (2001-2011), and Assistant Professor positions at Canisius College (1999-2005) and Lander University (1997-1999).

His research program centers on neurotoxicology mechanisms in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, with specific focus on dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin pathways. He investigates neuronal degeneration induced by substances like alcohol, PCP, and MK-801, utilizing transgenic mouse models and viral gene transfer techniques to study FGF receptor signaling in dopamine neuron development and neurodegenerative processes. His work bridges molecular neuroscience with clinical implications for neurodegenerative disorders.

Analysis of Dr. Corso's publication record reveals consistent emphasis on gene therapy applications for brain disorders and neurotoxicology mechanisms. His recent work demonstrates strong focus on viral vector delivery systems and FGF receptor modulation in Parkinson's disease models, while earlier research established foundational work on alcohol-induced neuronal damage and excitotoxicity. The publications collectively show progression from neurotoxicology mechanisms toward therapeutic interventions.

Dr. Corso has actively mentored undergraduate and graduate students, with sixteen named advisees co-authoring conference presentations at major venues including Society for Neuroscience and American Chemical Society meetings. His teaching innovations include developing neurochemistry laboratories using STELLA computer modeling for endogenous neurotoxin prediction and supercritical fluid extraction methods for food safety analysis.

His research collaborations span multiple institutions including SUNY Buffalo and Washington University, with laboratory work specializing in advanced neuroscience techniques such as viral vector delivery, HPLC neurotransmitter analysis, and transgenic mouse model development. Current projects focus on Parkinson's disease mechanisms and novel teaching laboratory development.