CADRD RESEARCH: Basic Science Studies

On this page:

What is a Basic Science Study?

Current Basic Science Studies

Affiliated Scientists & Laboratories

 

What is a Basic Science Study?

Basic science research typically includes studies with specialized tissue techniques, experimental animals, or tissues obtained from human autopsies.  These studies focus on identifying which processes might be occurring that would cause the disease or that might improve treatments for the disease.  The goal is to understand the mechanisms of human diseases using animal models.

Current Basic Science Studies

Metabolic Activity

We have initiated a multisite (Carbondale and Springfield) research program focusing on brain metabolic activity.  This project proposes that metabolic activity underlies both cognitive decline and deposition of brain beta-amyloid, the putative cause of Alzheimer's disease.

Beta-Amyloid

We are evaluating the effects of over-expression of beta- amyloid on mouse behavior.  Subsequent studies, in collaboration with Greg Brewer, PhD, Kenneth Stark Endowed Chair in Alzheimer's Research at SIU School of Medicine, will evaluate the efficacy of interventions.

Beta-Secretase

We are studying beta-secretase (BACE), the key enzyme in the formation of beta amyloid in human autopsy tissue.  This study includes 1) identifying where it is found in the brain; 2) its distribution in dementing illnesses besides AD; 3) which brain neurotransmitters are associated with BACE.

Apolipoprotein E

We are working with Britto Nathan, PhD, Eastern Illinois University, to examine the role of apolipoprotein E (apoE) and its role in repair and regeneration in the central nervous system.

Affiliate Researchers & Laboratories

Andrzej Bartke, PhD, Department of Internal Medicine, Director of Geriatric Medicine Research, SIU School of Medicine, Springfield

Gregory Brewer, PhD, Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology and Kenneth Stark Endowed Chair in Alzheimer's Research, SIU School of Medicine, Springfield

Sandy Burgener, PhD, University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Nursing, Urbana

Lisabeth DiLalla, PhD, Department of Family and Community Medicine, SIU  School of Medicine, Carbondale

Valerie Gruss, PhD, University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Nursing, Chicago

Reza Habib, PhD, Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale

Jodi Huggenvik, PhD, Department of Physiology, SIU School of Medicine, Carbondale

Mary McAsey, PhD, Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, SIU School of Medicine, Springfield

Britto Nathan, PhD, Department of Biology, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston

Peter Patrylo, PhD, Department of Physiology, SIU School of Medicine, Carbondale

Greg Rose, PhD, Director, Center for Integrated Research in Cognitive & Neural Sciences, Department of Anatomy, SIU School of Medicine, Carbondale

Don Scott, MD, Department of Family Medicine, SIU School of Medicine, Springfield

Xiao Xin Yan, MD, Department of Anatomy, SIU School of Medicine, Carbondale

Return to top