Research/Areas of Interest:
Our lab is interested in corneal immunology and neuroimmunology, with a focus on plasmacytoid dendritic cells. My project is aimed at understanding the role of these plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) in neuro-immune signaling. Of particular interest is determining the function of these cells in neurodegeneration and neuroregeneration. My goal is to understand the extracellular mediators sensed by pDCs and the downstream intracellular signaling cascade. To characterize this signaling, I have been using methods such as qRT-PCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry. Additionally, I am interested in applying these results in murine models of neuronal injury and neurodegeneration.
Education
BS, Biochemistry & Biology, University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth, Dartmouth, MA