Neurobiology Program

Martha C. Bohn, PhD, Program Director

Scientists in the Neurobiology Program have been conducting investigations of molecular processes underlying normal and abnormal brain development since 1997. Their research may ultimately lead to novel molecular and genetic therapies for diseases and injuries of the brain and spinal cord in children and adults. Investigators are involved in a variety of studies, examining, among others: (i) genes important to the formation of specific areas in the developing brain; (ii) how stem cells in the brain behave after brain injury; (iii) the role of growth factors in the development of the nervous system, nerve function, and death of neurons; and (iv) mechanisms involved in brain tumor formation, including gene expression profiles to identify certain brain tumors. One focus is on laboratory studies of gene therapy as an approach to correct defective genes in nerve cells, to kill tumor cells, and to prevent the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. For example, Dr. Bohn has successfully ameliorated the progression of disease in animal models of Lou Gehrig’s and Parkinson’s diseases through gene therapy. Her team is now seeking to develop means for successfully delivering therapeutic genes to the human nervous system for people suffering from neurodegenerative diseases and nervous system injuries.

A new initiative of the Neurobiology Program, Children’s Research on Injury to the Brain (CRIB), brings together approximately 60 scientists representing a variety of disciplines who are conducting studies into the causes, treatment, and prevention of brain disease and injury. CRIB integrates diverse aspects of research and clinical studies, such as neurosurgery, cellular level function, and prevention and outcomes measures, to better understand brain development and ways to improve outcomes for children with brain injuries. CRIB’s goal is to facilitate the application of recently acquired scientific knowledge and technologies to develop novel clinical therapies – such as gene therapy and delivery approaches – for the brain and spinal cord

• {CRIB} poster
  New Perspectives on Pediatric Brain Injury
  Thursday, April 29 and Friday, April 30, 2004