Researching Cellular, Molecular, and Integrative Mechanisms in the Brain’s Circadian Clock
Projects
Studying Circadian Rhythms and Inflammation at the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago: Our research at the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago focuses on the intricate relationship between circadian rhythms and inflammation. We investigate how the body’s internal clock, which governs various biological processes in near-24-hour cycles, influences inflammatory responses. Disruptions to circadian rhythms have been linked to a range of diseases, from autoimmune conditions to neurodegenerative disorders. By studying how circadian timing regulates inflammation at the molecular and cellular levels, we aim to uncover novel mechanisms that contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases. This work not only provides insight into the fundamental biology of circadian rhythms but also opens doors for developing new therapeutic strategies targeting the circadian system to better manage inflammatory conditions and related disorders.
Investigating the Circadian Rhythms of the Blood-Brain Interface: The blood-brain interface is critical in maintaining brain homeostasis and protecting it from harmful substances. Our research explores how circadian rhythms influence the function and integrity of the blood-brain barrier, which regulates the passage of molecules between the brain and the rest of the body. By studying the temporal patterns that govern the permeability and functionality of this barrier, we aim to identify how circadian disruption can affect brain health, potentially contributing to neurological diseases. This research is crucial for understanding how the brain’s biological clock might impact conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and multiple sclerosis. Understanding the circadian control of the blood-brain interface offers new perspectives on how environmental and lifestyle factors that alter circadian rhythms could influence neurological diseases and cognitive health.
Creating a Human Blood-Brain Interface Model Using iPSCs to Study Circadian Rhythms: In our lab, we are developing an advanced human blood-brain interface model by differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). This model allows us to recreate the complexities of the blood-brain barrier in vitro, providing a powerful tool for studying how circadian rhythms regulate barrier function in human brain cells. By using iPSCs derived from different individuals, we can investigate how genetic and environmental factors interact with the circadian clock to influence blood-brain barrier permeability. This model enables us to explore the impacts of circadian disruptions in a controlled setting, opening up new avenues for understanding how daily rhythms affect brain health, especially in the context of neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke. Ultimately, our goal is to use this model to identify novel therapeutic targets for improving brain health and preventing diseases related to circadian rhythm disruptions.
Funding Highlights
Our lab is proud to be supported by leading institutions at the forefront of scientific discovery:
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago Investigator Program: Driving our cutting-edge research into the mysteries of inflammation and its role in health and disease.
- NIH Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Powering our exploration of the Blood-Brain Interface, unraveling its complexities to understand and combat neurological and vascular disorders.
With this dynamic funding, we push boundaries to advance transformative science
Collaborators
Our collaborators at the University of Illinois include:
Hyunjoon Kong – Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Chemical Sciences https://chbe.illinois.edu/people/profile/hjkong06
Bumsoo Han – Professor of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Phil & Ann Sharp Scholar in Cancer Research, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Cancer Center in Illinois https://mechse.illinois.edu/people/profile/bumsooh
Jonathan Sweedler – James R. Eiszner Family Endowed Chair in Chemistry and Director, School of Chemical Sciences https://chemistry.illinois.edu/jsweedle
Rashid Bashir – Director of Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory, Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Rohit Bhargava – Professor of Bioengineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Mechanical Science & Engineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Chemistry
Gabriel Popescu – Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering