Research

We advance translational therapies for spinal cord injury by pairing detailed circuit analysis with targeted interventions that prioritize motor recovery, autonomic stability, neuronal protection, and relief from neuropathic pain.

By interrogating how injury reshapes spinal neurons and communication between the brain and cord, we pinpoint leverage points that convert basic discoveries into clinically meaningful recovery.

Current Research Areas

Unlocking Motor Pathways

Enhancing the chloride transporter KCC2 to release spared locomotor circuitry after incomplete spinal cord injury.

Focus: Rebalancing inhibitory tone so descending commands can recruit relay neurons and restore stepping.
  • KCC2 agonist screening in targeted injury paradigms.
  • Behavioral recovery profiling following pathway modulation.
  • Dose and timing optimization for translational readiness.

Protecting Vulnerable Neurons

Preventing prolonged swelling and degeneration of excitatory neurons using 3D imaging, light-sheet microscopy, and AI-assisted analysis.

Focus: Identifying early indicators of harmful remodeling and applying interventions before chronic decline begins.
  • Whole-cord volumetric mapping of injured neurons.
  • Quantifying edema resolution under candidate therapies.
  • Discovering biomarkers that predict long-term function.

Restoring Autonomic Control

Reconnecting pontine micturition center (PMC) to spinal circuits to return voluntary bladder and bowel function.

Focus: Rebuilding brainstem-spinal communication channels that govern day-to-day autonomy and quality of life.
  • Circuit-level tracing of PMC pathways post-injury.
  • Neuromodulation strategies that reactivate spared connections.
  • Behavioral assays of bladder/bowel outcomes in preclinical models.

Interrupting Neuropathic Pain

Targeting maladaptive brain-to-spinal signaling that drives central neuropathic pain after injury.

Focus: Pinpointing and silencing aberrant circuits before chronic pain is established.
  • Circuit dissection of pain-generating pathways.
  • Cell-specific modulation to normalize signaling.
  • Preclinical validation of durable pain relief strategies.

Key Research Priorities

Motor Recovery

Restoring stepping and voluntary movement.

Autonomic Function

Re-establishing bladder and bowel control.

Pain Relief

Reducing central neuropathic pain through circuit-level interventions.

Neuronal Resilience

Safeguarding spinal neurons against chronic swelling and degeneration.

Translational Outlook

Our multidisciplinary collaborations bridge basic discovery, advanced imaging, and preclinical modeling to accelerate therapies that meaningfully improve day-to-day life. We welcome partnerships that expand the reach of these efforts.