Dr. Ilse Pienaar is a researcher at Newcastle University , focusing on mitochondrial genetics and neurodegenerative diseases. Her work spans Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and chronic fatigue syndrome, with a particular emphasis on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variations and their implications in these conditions. Education : Not explicitly mentioned. Research Interests : Mitochondrial dysfunction, neurodegeneration, and neurogenetics. Recent Publications : Highlights include studies on type-specific neuronal mitochondrial DNA failure in Lewy body dementia (2025), non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (2023), and mtDNA variation in Alzheimer's and chronic fatigue syndrome (2022, 2019). Collaborations : Frequently collaborates with Dr. Joanna Elson, Dr. Helen Tuppen, and Professor Raj Kalaria. Techniques : Utilizes in vitro models, animal models, and genetic analysis in her research.
Professor David Brooks is a leading academic at Newcastle University, specializing in neurodegenerative diseases with a focus on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. His work integrates advanced neuroimaging techniques like PET and MRI to study molecular, vascular, and synaptic changes in neurodegenerative disorders. He leads multidisciplinary research into biomarker development, disease progression mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions. His research emphasizes the interplay between neuroinflammation, amyloid pathology, and cholinergic dysfunction. Key areas include early detection of Alzheimer’s via cerebral blood flow and amyloid imaging, and understanding Parkinson’s disease heterogeneity through noradrenergic and dopaminergic subtyping. Brooks collaborates extensively with institutions worldwide, contributing to clinical trials like the Cinpanemab study and the ELAD trial investigating GLP-1 analogues for Alzheimer’s. His work also explores exercise’s neuroprotective effects and animal models (e.g., minipigs) for translational research.
Dr. Paul Donaghy is a researcher at Newcastle University, specializing in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). His work focuses on biomarkers, clinical features, and imaging techniques to differentiate between neurodegenerative disorders. He has contributed to studies analyzing brain connectivity, atrophy patterns, and plasma biomarkers to improve diagnostic accuracy and predict disease progression. Key research interests include neuropsychiatric symptoms in prodromal DLB, longitudinal clinical outcomes in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and the role of multimorbidity in neuropathology. His studies often utilize advanced neuroimaging (e.g., MRI, PET) and biomarker profiling to uncover disease mechanisms. Collaborative projects with clinicians and researchers aim to translate findings into clinical practice, such as developing diagnostic criteria and improving patient management strategies. Dr. Donaghy’s work has addressed challenges in distinguishing DLB from AD, exploring topics like cardiac innervation scintigraphy, cholinergic system degeneration, and polygenic risk factors. He has also investigated the impact of the pandemic on dementia patients and their caregivers, highlighting social inclusion challenges and digital technology applications.
Gilles Martin is an Assistant Professor of Neurobiology at UMass Chan Medical School, affiliated with the T.H. Chan School of Medicine and the Brudnick Neuropsychiatric Research Institute. He holds a PhD in Neurobiology from Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris, France) and completed postdoctoral training at the Max-Planck Institute and The Scripps Research Institute. His research focuses on understanding how alcohol exposure alters synaptic communication in brain regions linked to addiction, particularly the nucleus accumbens. Key projects investigate cholinergic interneurons' role in synaptic transmission and how medium spiny neurons process emotional and cognitive information post-alcohol exposure. Techniques include patch-clamp recordings, optogenetics, and in vivo imaging. Martin's affiliations span multiple departments: Neurobiology, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Neuroscience programs at Morningside Graduate School. He collaborates widely, with co-authors including Andrew Tapper and Rubing Zhao-Shea, and his work has been published in journals like Nature Communications and Neuron .
Dr. Jennifer Vega is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School. She holds a BS in Psychology from the University of Arizona and a PhD in Cognitive & Systems Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University (2018). Her research focuses on translational neuroscience addressing cognitive aging in vulnerable populations, particularly chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment in cancer survivors. Key areas include neuroimaging, cognitive psychology, and clinical neuroscience. Education: Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Arizona Doctorate in Cognitive & Systems Neuroscience, Vanderbilt University (2018) Her work investigates novel interventions like nicotine therapy and computerized cognitive training to mitigate cognitive deficits in cancer survivors. Research themes span pathologic cognitive aging, neuro-oncology, and patient-centered translational strategies. Publications emphasize neuroimaging biomarkers, functional connectivity alterations, and clinical trial methodologies. Dr. Vega’s contributions include pioneering feasibility studies on cognitive enhancement strategies and advancing understanding of post-chemotherapy cognitive dysfunction mechanisms. She maintains affiliations with the T.H. Chan School of Medicine’s Psychiatry department and collaborates on projects addressing late-life cognitive impairment in diverse populations.
Emre UYAR, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at Uskudar University's Faculty of Pharmacy. His research focuses on psychopharmacology, memory disorders, and drug-induced cognitive impairments. He holds a BSc from Anadolu University (2008), MSc (2012) and PhD (2018) in Pharmacology from Dicle University. Dr. UYAR's current projects investigate agmatine's protective effects against methotrexate-induced cognitive deficits in mice, funded by TÜBİTAK until 2026. He teaches Medical Committee Courses (Committee 3B) and Pharmacology II at the undergraduate level. Research interests: Alzheimer's models, ketamine neurotoxicity, serotonin system interactions, and opioid-related neurodegeneration. Recent publications (2023–2025) focus on neuroprotective agents in cognitive disorders and pharmacological intervention strategies. Book chapters include works on aspirin therapeutic potentials (2024) and amphetamine pharmacology (2023).
Michael Jakowec is a Clinical Professor at the Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Southern California. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity in brain injury, particularly in the basal ganglia , with emphasis on neurotransmitter systems involving dopamine, glutamate, and serotonin. He investigates pharmacological and behavioral modifications (e.g., treadmill exercise) to enhance motor behavior in Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease models. Techniques: Immunocytochemistry, in situ hybridization, western blot, gene arrays, PET imaging, electrophysiology Collaborations: Giselle Petzinger (PET imaging), John Walsh (electrophysiology), Daniel Holschneider (blood flow), Brett Lund (immunology), Ruth Wood (behavior) His recent publications demonstrate trends in exercise-induced neuroplasticity , perivascular space dynamics , and dopamine-serotonin-glutamate interactions in neurodegenerative models. Collaborative work explores naturally occurring neuroprotective peptides and ivermectin’s role in cholinergic-dopaminergic modulation.
Nathan A. Smith is an Associate Professor of Neuroscience and Associate Dean for Research Mentorship at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. He holds administrative roles in the Dean's Office and leads the 'Science of Neuro-Glia Interaction' laboratory. His research focuses on neuromodulator-mediated interactions between neurons, astrocytes, and microglia in health and disease, particularly in ADHD, epilepsy, and insulin resistance. Dr. Smith earned his B.S. in Biology from Xavier University (2002) and M.S./Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Rochester (2010/2013). His postdoctoral training included positions at the University of Utah (2013-2015), Boston University, and Children's National Hospital. He is a 2021 AAAS Fellow and has been recognized for advancing diversity in neuroscience. Education: Bachelor of Science, Biology - Xavier University of Louisiana (2002) MS, Neuroscience - University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry (2010) PhD, Neuroscience - University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry (2013) Research Interests: Dr. Smith investigates how neuromodulators like norepinephrine regulate neuro-glial interactions. His lab employs transgenic models, electrophysiology, and imaging techniques to study astrocyte roles in synaptic plasticity and disease. Current projects explore astrocytic lipid release in epilepsy and the role of locus coeruleus in memory formation. Key Achievements: Recipient of 2021 AAAS Fellowship 2020 Cell Press '1000 Inspiring Black Scientists' 2019 University of Rochester Neuroscience Alumni Award 2018 Children's National President's Award for Innovation Advising & Grants: Dr. Smith mentors postdoctoral fellows and graduate students in the Neuroscience PhD and Medical Scientist Training programs. His grants include NIH, NSF, and DOD funding for projects on neuro-glial crosstalk and biomarker identification in neurological disorders. He advocates for DEI initiatives, co-authoring strategies for inclusive labs and journals. Lab & Collaborations: The Smith Lab is affiliated with the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience and collaborates with institutions like Children's National Research Institute. Ongoing projects include studying astrocyte modulation of sensory transmission and developing tools for mitochondrial research.
Manoela V. Fogaca is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology and holds a joint appointment in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry (SMD). Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying stress-related behaviors and the actions of fast-acting antidepressants and anxiolytics. She explores how GABAergic and glutamatergic neuronal circuits modulate network dynamics in stress disorders and antidepressant responses. Fogaca's lab employs molecular neuropharmacology, genetic approaches, and circuit-level studies to identify novel therapeutic targets for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Her postdoctoral training was at Yale University under Drs. Ronald Duman and Marina Picciotto. She has received prestigious awards, including the K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award (2022) and the NARSAD Young Investigator Award (2020). Her work emphasizes pharmacological strategies targeting the glutamatergic and GABAergic systems, such as ketamine-like compounds and GABA receptor modulators. Key research themes include GABAergic dysfunction in stress, synaptic plasticity, BDNF signaling, and the role of specific neuronal subpopulations (e.g., somatostatin and parvalbumin interneurons). Her publications highlight contributions to understanding rapid antidepressant mechanisms, neuroprotective effects of cannabidiol, and stress-induced transcriptomic changes in interneurons. Awards: K99/R00 (2022), NARSAD (2020) Labs/Teams: Fogaca Lab at URMC focuses on translational neuropharmacology and circuit neuroscience.
Shengtao Yang is an Associate Research Scientist in Neuroscience at Yale School of Medicine, Yale University. He holds a PhD from Fudan University (2014) and specializes in understanding synaptic mechanisms and cognitive functions in primate and rodent models. His research focuses on prefrontal cortical circuits, working memory, synaptic plasticity, and the impact of aging and neurodegenerative pathologies. Key research areas include calcium signaling dysregulation in Alzheimer's disease models, adrenergic and cholinergic receptor modulation of neuronal activity, and molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive disorders. Collaborations with co-authors like Min Wang, PhD, and Dr. Arnsten highlight his work on primate models of stress and aging. Publications emphasize translational neuroscience, exploring therapeutic targets like glutamate-carboxypeptidase-II inhibition and dopamine receptor agonists. His studies bridge basic neurobiology with clinical implications for schizophrenia, Alzheimer's, and other cognitive impairments. Education: PhD in Neuroscience (Fudan University, 2014) Research Themes: Primate prefrontal cortex physiology Synaptic dysfunction in mental disorders Aging and neurodegenerative biomarkers Cholinergic/GABAergic modulation Labs/Teams: Collaborates within Yale's Systems Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology groups
Zachary Gursky is a Research Fellow in Neuroscience at Yale School of Medicine, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders and cerebrovascular pathophysiology. His work focuses on the impact of alcohol exposure on brain structures like the thalamic nucleus reuniens and glymphatic system function, with applications to Alzheimer’s disease and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). He holds a PhD in Psychological & Brain Sciences from the University of Delaware (2018), an MS in Neuroscience, and a BS in Psychology. Research Interests: Gursky’s studies investigate how developmental alcohol exposure disrupts thalamic circuits, alters CSF flow, and impairs cognitive functions. Using rodent models, he explores mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and potential therapeutic interventions like exercise-based rehabilitation. Key Contributions: His 2024 study on solute clearance in Alzheimer’s models and 2023 work on CPAP’s effects on glymphatic transport highlight his translational research. Over 20 peer-reviewed publications span FASD neurobiology, cerebrovascular imaging, and neuroplasticity mechanisms. Awards: Recipient of the President’s Young Investigator Award (2018) and multiple travel/fellowship grants from NIH and professional societies. His work bridges basic neuroscience with clinical applications in neurological disorders.
Thomas Arendt is a Professor at the University of Leipzig, affiliated with the Medical Faculty. He serves as the Full Professor for Neuroanatomy and Head of Department, Managing Director of the Paul Flechsig Institute of Brain Research, and Director of the Alzheimer Centre Leipzig. His work spans basic and clinical translational sciences, with a focus on neurodegenerative disorders. Education: Medical Diploma (1978), Medical Doctorate (1982), and Habilitation (1990) from Universität Leipzig. Postgraduate training in neurochemistry, neuroanatomy, and neuropathology at Paul Flechsig Institute, Leipzig, Academy of Medical Sciences (Moscow), and Institute of Psychiatry, University College London (1986/87). Dr. Arendt's research centers on neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease, exploring molecular mechanisms such as cholinergic neurotransmission, hypometabolism, apoptosis, extracellular matrix dynamics, and biomarker development. His work integrates cellular and molecular neuroscience with translational approaches, including stem cell transplantation for cognitive dysfunction. Scientific Awards: Alois Alzheimer Award (2004) German Brain League Award (1995) Welcome Trust Fellowship (1986) Rudolf-Virchow-Award (1985) German Society for Experimental Medicine Award (1984) Lessing Award (1976) With over 400 publications and an H-index of 72, Dr. Arendt has secured continuous funding from prestigious organizations including the German Research Foundation (DFG), German Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF), European Commission, and NIH. He has directed the Paul Flechsig Institute (since 2005) and developed 19 patents for CNS diagnostics and treatment, some licensed to U.S. biotech companies. He has supervised 45+ PhDs, 50 medical theses, and 5 habilitations. Dr. Arendt is actively involved in scientific governance, serving on the boards of international journals and as Director of the Scientific Advisory Board of the Alzheimer Forschung Initiative. His leadership roles include Dean’s office membership (University of Leipzig, 2003–2005) and founding the Alzheimer Centre Leipzig (2004–present).
Sanjay Manohar is an Associate Professor in the Department of Experimental Psychology at the University of Oxford and Honorary Consultant. He leads the Computational Neurology Group, focusing on how neural processes underpin cognition. His work integrates computational modeling with EEG, fMRI, and single-neuron data to study dopamine, acetylcholine, and frontal lobe dysfunction in Parkinson's disease and neurological disorders. He holds a PhD and MBPsS qualification, alongside an MRCP. Key educational milestones include a Junior Research Fellowship at Lady Margaret Hall (Oxford) and training at Imperial College and UCL. His research emphasizes decision-making, motivation, and working memory, with a focus on neurotransmitter systems and their disruptions in disease. Major achievements include the 2020 Thomas Willis Prize, 2019 Leverhulme Grant, and multiple teaching awards. His lab collaborates with Professors Masud Husain, Mark Stokes, and Rafal Bogacz to explore cognitive neuroscience questions through neuropsychological methods. Techniques include eye-tracking, pupillometry, computational modeling, and neuroimaging. Recent publications highlight work on working memory in neurodegenerative diseases, decision-making in Parkinson's, and apathy mechanisms in Huntington's disease. He has pioneered smartphone-based pupillometry for clinical applications and explored genetic influences on cognitive aging. His research bridges clinical neurology with computational theory, addressing translational challenges in neuropsychiatric disorders. Grant activities include MRC and Wellcome Trust funding, while educational contributions span Oxford's teaching awards and innovation grants. He oversees a multidisciplinary team including postdocs, PhD students, and undergraduates, fostering collaborative research environments through weekly lab meetings. Notable labs/teams: Computational Neurology Group (Oxford), with access to neurological patient cohorts and advanced neuroimaging facilities. Current projects investigate dopamine's role in multi-dimensional learning, cholinergic modulation of attention, and translational biomarkers for Parkinson's disease.
Luis Rene Garcia is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Texas A&M University. His research focuses on the genetics and molecular mechanisms regulating behavior and development in the nematode C. elegans , particularly the interplay between feeding states and mating behaviors. He joined the university in 2002 and holds a B.S. (1990) and Ph.D. (1996) in Microbiology from the University of Texas at Austin, followed by postdoctoral research at the California Institute of Technology. His research investigates how sensory inputs and physiological conditions (e.g., food deprivation) modulate neural circuits controlling mating and feeding behaviors. Key topics include insulin signaling, potassium channel regulation, and the role of neurotransmitters like acetylcholine. Garcia’s work has revealed how nutritional status affects neuronal excitability, with implications for behavioral persistence and circuit dysfunction resembling seizures in mutant strains. Awards: Howard Hughes Investigator (2008) Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (2006) Searle Scholars Award (2003) Publications highlight studies on microbiota-derived metabolites, developmental pathways (e.g., DAF-16 signaling), and age-related metabolic changes impacting mating fitness. His lab integrates genetics, transgenics, and laser microsurgery to dissect behavioral circuits. Current projects explore molecular mechanisms sustaining persistent mating behavior and nutrient-sensing pathways in C. elegans .
Prof. Erik de Vries is a Full Professor at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Medical Sciences, affiliated with the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG). He holds dual roles as Research Chair and contact person for contract research within the department. His academic journey includes a PhD from Leiden University (1995) and a career spanning over two decades at the UMCG, where he advanced from Assistant Professor (2008) to Associate Professor (2011) and ultimately Full Professor in Translational Molecular Imaging (2019). His research focuses on translational molecular imaging , particularly PET imaging applications in neuroinflammation, tumor imaging, and psychiatric/neurodegenerative diseases. Key contributions include developing PET tracers for clinical and preclinical use, leading the Radiochemistry/Radiopharmacy section (2015–2021), and coordinating the MOLAR program (2015–2024) within BCN-BRAIN. He also pioneered the [11C]MeDAS PET tracer for myelin imaging in multiple sclerosis. Prof. de Vries has extensive international collaboration experience, including roles as Special Visiting Scientist at the University of São Paulo (2014–2016) and ambassador for academic partnerships in Brazil. He has authored/co-authored over 289 publications, edited multi-author textbooks on PET/SPECT imaging in neurology/psychiatry, and contributed to EANM guidelines on leukocyte imaging. His work bridges preclinical research, clinical applications, and industry partnerships. Grants and collaborations include leadership in the IMPACT-Metastatic Breast Consortium and involvement in projects like the IAEA National Training Course. His research spans drug development (e.g., trimebutine), neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s), and oncological imaging (breast cancer, gliomas). He actively supervises research teams and advises on imaging methodologies through groups like BRIDGE (Basic and Translational Research & Imaging Methodology Development).
