Bringing new treatments for neurological disorders

Neural stem cell clone in rendered brain (Image courtesy of Michael Bonaguidi)

Dr. Michael Bonaguidi studies individual neural stem cells within the adult brain. These stem cells are in an important part of the brain known as the hippocampus, which is involved in learning, memory and emotions. Neural stem cells thus offer intriguing possibilities for treating a variety of symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and mood disorders.

The Choi Family Therapeutic Screening Facility has helped Dr. Bonaguidi’s team find potential drugs that encourage neural stem cells to either last longer or make more stem cells. This could usher in new treatments for physically and mentally debilitating conditions, such as head trauma, stroke and various types of brain damage.