Areas of Research

Biological Aging, Genetic and Environmental factors in MS

​Our neuro-immunology research group is focused on studying the factors that drive disease severity in multiple sclerosis and related diseases. The host matters in autoimmune disease. We have demonstrated that somatic and reproductive aging markers are associated with disability accumulation and brain volume loss. In the youngest of patients with MS, with disease onset in childhood, we have demonstrated that environmental risk of MS may extend back to the perinatal period. Genetic polymorphisms shape the risk of the disease and we have begun to identify genetic factors that may influence disease outcomes.

Biosensing in Neurology

The common tools of neurology, the reflex hammer and tuning fork, were introduced in 1888 and 1889. Our research team is invested in leveraging modern technology and biosensors to enhance neurological assessments. We envision a 21st century exam with neurological 'vital signs' that can capture function quickly and cheaply in routine clinic visits.

Visual System in Neuroimmunological Disease

The visual system provides an opportune and elegant window into the inflammatory and degenerative aspects of MS. We can identify precise relationships between structural damage and functional outcomes that are difficult to achieve in other aspects of nervous system injury.