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MIND Lab

Projects

Noninvasive Assessment of Whole-Body Immune Responses in Neurological Disease

Goal

The goal of this project is to investigate the in vivo role of peripheral and central immune responses in the initiation and progression of neurological disease such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and traumatic brain injury. Our in vivo approach through molecular imaging aims to provide invaluable knowledge regarding the temporal dynamics of inflammation and the relationship to disease outcomes. 

Utilizing preclinical mouse models of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammatory disease, we perform in vivo imaging (PET, CT, MRI), behavioral and tissue-based approaches to define the role of inflammation in neurological disease.

Investigating Whole-Body Innate Immune Activation in Alzheimer’s Disease Participants Using PET Imaging and Immune Profiling

Goal

The goal of this project is to better understand the role of whole-body innate inflammation in the pathogenesis of AD.

The MIND Lab is developing a whole-body approach to quantify innate immune responses in AD. Specifically, we are interested in the association with markers of innate immunity and disease severity across cognitive states.

Development and Evaluation of Novel Myeloid Cell-Specific PET Tracers

Goal

This project aims to develop novel PET tracers in order to target potential biomarkers located on central  and peripheral myeloid cells during neurodegeneration.

For detection of these myeloid cell-specific biomarkers, we will synthesize novel PET tracers and evaluate them for specificity and selectivity. These potential tracers will be further validated in-vivo and ex-vivo in a multitude of rodent models expressing varying diseases.

Our People

The lab, led by Aisling Chaney, PhD, thrives in a multidisciplinary environment encompassing neuroscience, radiochemistry, translational radiology and neuroimmunology via a talented team of diverse researchers.

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